Then and Now Graduation Photo Idea: A Sentimental Twist You Can Recreate This Year
Graduation season in Southern California is filled with emotion, celebration, and the opportunity to reflect on just how far you've come. One creative and meaningful way to commemorate your academic journey is through the “Then and Now” graduation photo idea—where you recreate a cherished photo from an earlier graduation, like kindergarten, fifth grade, or middle school, side-by-side with your current high school or college cap and gown portraits. Whether you recreate this yourself or work with a photographer to bring it to life, it’s an unforgettable way to document your growth.
In this blog, we explore how to plan your own Then and Now graduation shoot, how to choose the best Southern California photo locations—from UCLA to UC Riverside to SDSU—and how to make the most of this trend while still incorporating family, pets, and special props. We also introduce our flexible Milestone Graduation Package, which gives you the space to personalize your session and bring your ideas to life—whether that’s a full cap and gown session with family or recreating a beloved childhood moment.
From the rolling hills of Temecula Wine Country to the iconic architecture of USC and UC Irvine, we cover the top photo spots, expert tips, and how this idea can make your graduation experience more emotional, personal, and truly one-of-a-kind.
Photo Credit: Immanuel Offei
The Concept: Then and Now Graduation Photos
There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing a side-by-side photo of who you were and who you’ve become. The Then and Now concept encourages you to bring your earliest graduation photo and recreate it today. The magic lies in the contrast: your transformation, your resilience, your growth.
Whether it’s a kindergartener in an oversized gown or a middle school snapshot on your childhood porch, this idea helps reconnect you with where you started—and gives you space to celebrate how far you’ve come.
While we don’t formally advertise this as a service, we’re happy to help guide you through recreating your own Then and Now moment—or to include it as a creative twist in your personalized session.
Why It Works
Visual storytelling – Captures a graduation journey in one powerful image.
Emotional connection – Especially meaningful for families and parents.
Social media friendly – Ideal for reels, announcements, and memory walls.
Legacy-building – Creates keepsakes that last well beyond the graduation party.
Personal Reflection
As a photographer, I often reflect on my own journey through images. I love how I can take accountability by looking through my pictures on social media. I can literally see how far I’ve progressed this month and reflect on how much I’ve grown in the year. Taking pictures almost daily has allowed me to track my progress not only in my photography but in my health, writing, networking, business management, and advertising. It's the only time instant gratification actually feels positive—because I'm watching my own story unfold, one image at a time.
That’s the heart of this idea. Your graduation is a chapter in that visual autobiography.
How to Recreate a Then and Now Graduation Photo
Find Your Original Graduation Photo – Whether it’s printed or digital, choose a photo from an early milestone.
Match the Pose and Details – Think about expression, outfit elements, or setting.
Select the Perfect Location – Revisit the school or front yard where it began—or recreate the vibe on your college campus.
Add Meaningful Props or People – Use your diploma, pets, childhood toys, or invite family members to join.
If you'd like support, we’re happy to incorporate this concept into your professional shoot.
Top Graduation Photo Locations in Southern California
Los Angeles County
UCLA (View) – Royce Hall and Powell Library create an iconic academic backdrop.
USC (View) – Alumni Park and Bovard Auditorium offer classic grad vibes.
Cal State LA (View) – Hilltop views, fountains, and bold architecture.
Orange County
UC Irvine (View) – Modern lines at the Student Center and lush landscapes in Aldrich Park.
Cal State Fullerton (View) – Titan Walk is perfect for both solo and family photos.
Chapman University (View) – Beautiful historic red brick buildings and shaded staircases.
Inland Empire
UC Riverside (View) – Bell Tower and Botanic Gardens offer serene backdrops.
Cal State San Bernardino (View) – The university sign and green spaces are ideal for large group shots.
Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) (View) – Great for simplicity and clean design elements.
Temecula Area
Old Town Temecula (View) – Rustic storefronts and boardwalk charm.
Temecula Wine Country (View) – Golden hour vineyard light for timeless images.
Lake Skinner – Perfect for sentimental family-based recreations.
San Diego County
UC San Diego (UCSD) (View) – Geisel Library and coastal cliffs offer both classic and bold visual options.
San Diego State University (SDSU) (View) – Hepner Hall is a local favorite for its timeless arches.
Want Help Capturing It? Our Milestone Graduation Package is designed to be flexible enough to bring your ideas to life. While we don’t specifically market the Then and Now series, we’re always happy to bring creative visions into a session.
Milestone Graduation Package Includes:
1-hour personalized session
30 edited high-resolution images
One meaningful location in Riverside or San Bernardino County (no travel fee)
Sessions available in San Diego, Orange, or Los Angeles County (additional travel fee applies)
Two outfit changes (cap and gown + one personal look)
Can include family, friends, pets, props, or special locations
Let us know if you’d like to incorporate a Then and Now element—we’d be happy to make it happen.
Final Thoughts
Your graduation story deserves to be told in a way that reflects both where you started and who you’ve become. The Then and Now idea is a heartfelt concept you can do yourself—or let us help bring it to life with professional quality and care.
Whether you recreate a childhood photo with your family or want something more polished to frame, we’re here to help make your graduation unforgettable.
Book your Milestone Graduation Package today, and let’s celebrate how far you’ve come—one image at a time.
Why DIY Family Graduation Photos Are Going Viral in 2025 — And How to Make Yours Unforgettable
In 2025, more families are ditching traditional studios and embracing meaningful, DIY graduation photography—often taken by a parent, sibling, or friend. The trend exploded after a Mississippi dad went viral for capturing his daughter’s graduation photos with nothing more than a borrowed camera and a whole lot of love. As a photographer raised by a photo-loving father myself, I know firsthand how powerful these moments are. I grew up with my dad documenting every chapter of my life—from birthdays to graduations—and those images have only grown more meaningful with time. That experience shaped me, and now I help other families preserve those same once-in-a-lifetime memories.
In this blog, we explore why DIY family grad photos are resonating so deeply, how to capture them beautifully, and when it’s time to bring in a professional. We’ve also included a list of the best photo-worthy locations near major Southern California universities—from UCLA and USC to UC Riverside and Cal State San Bernardino. Whether your family is driving in from Los Angeles or Orange County or flying in from New York, Houston, or Mexico City, we’ll help you capture those unforgettable milestones. And when you’re ready to upgrade your DIY with professional editing, lighting, and a short video highlight reel, our Milestone Graduation Package is the perfect next step.
Photo Credit: Albert Vincent Wu
The Viral Graduation Story That Touched the World
In 2024, Taylor Clark, a college graduate from Mississippi, needed someone to take her graduation photos. Instead of hiring a professional, she turned to the one person who’s always been in her corner: her dad. With no photography experience and a borrowed camera, Tim Clark took his daughter’s portraits. Taylor shared the results on social media, saying:
“POV: your dad is your biggest fan and takes your grad pics with no experience 🥺📸”
The post went viral. What moved people wasn’t just the photos—it was the visible pride, love, and emotion in every frame. It showed that you don’t need expensive gear to capture a meaningful moment. You just need someone who loves you behind the lens.
My Story: From My Dad’s Camera to Yours
That story hit home for me. My dad was a photographer too. I grew up in a house where he always had a camera in hand—documenting everything from birthdays to graduations. Back then, I didn’t realize how important those photos would become. Now, as a full-time photographer, I find myself carrying the same torch, giving other families the kind of memories I was lucky to grow up with.
That’s why family graduation photos matter so much. They tell a story only you can tell—and sometimes, the people who know you best capture it best.
Why DIY Graduation Photos Are Booming in 2025
Emotion Over Perfection — It’s not about flawless lighting or sharp edits. It’s about capturing a hug, a proud tear, or a shared laugh.
Families Flying & Driving In — Many families travel from New York, Texas, Illinois, Mexico, Florida, and across California to celebrate their grads. DIY photos help include everyone in the experience.
Tight Budgets — With rising costs, DIY is a smart way to save money without missing the moment.
Connection First — Letting a parent, sibling, or partner take your photo adds a layer of intimacy no professional can replicate.
Top Graduation Photo Locations by University in Southern California
Here's a location guide with tips for families shooting DIY or booking our Milestone Graduation Package:
LOS ANGELES AREA
UCLA (Link): Royce Hall, Janss Steps, and Sculpture Garden offer iconic backdrops. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
USC (Link): Alumni Park and Doheny Library have beautiful columns and arches for a timeless look.
Cal State LA (Link): The campus fountain and hilltop views make for open, clean family-friendly shots.
ORANGE COUNTY
Chapman University (Link): Known for its charming brick buildings and beautiful landscaping. Historic Memorial Hall is perfect for wide shots.
UC Irvine (Link): Aldrich Park has lush green backgrounds, while the Student Center has modern architectural lines.
Cal State Fullerton (Link): The Titan Walk and campus sculpture garden are popular for groups.
INLAND EMPIRE
UC Riverside (Link): Shoot in the Botanic Gardens or in front of the Bell Tower.
Cal State San Bernardino (Link): Great natural light near the library lawn and university sign.
Mt. San Jacinto College (Link): Temecula Valley Campus has a clean modern look. Perfect for grads wanting simplicity.
TEMECULA & SURROUNDING
Old Town Temecula (Link) — Rustic backdrops, wooden walkways, and charm.
Temecula Wine Country (Link) — Rolling hills, golden hour magic.
Lake Skinner — Ideal for candid family group shots near the water.
SAN DIEGO
UC San Diego (Link) — Geisel Library for bold lines. Scripps Pier for ocean backdrops.
San Diego State University (Link) — Hepner Hall is iconic for arches and Spanish-style architecture.
Tips for DIY Family Graduation Photos
Golden Hour = Magic — Shoot an hour before sunset for warm, flattering light.
Tripods & Timers — Get everyone in the frame without rushing.
Detail Shots — Close-ups of hands holding diplomas, caps, shoes, or hugs can be powerful.
Use What You Have — iPhones, entry-level DSLRs, even Polaroids can do the job.
Capture the Story — Don’t just pose. Photograph the in-betweens: adjusting gowns, laughing, wiping tears.
When to Bring in a Photographer (That’s Where We Come In)
While DIY is powerful, some moments deserve a professional eye—especially if you want everyone in the frame, or you're short on time and energy.
🎓 Milestone Graduation Package
1-Hour Photoshoot
30 Edited Images
Two outfit changes (cap and gown + one personal look)
One meaningful location in Riverside or San Bernardino County (no travel fee)
Sessions available in San Diego, Orange, or Los Angeles County (additional travel fee applies)
Ideal for Family, Friends, Pets, and Props
Available for Last-Minute Bookings!
Whether you're celebrating in Temecula, San Bernardino, Orange County, Los Angeles, or San Diego—we travel to you. Let us take care of lighting, posing, scouting, and editing so you can focus on celebrating.
Final Thoughts
DIY family graduation photos are powerful because they come from the heart. Whether your dad’s behind the camera, or your cousin is balancing an iPhone on a rock, what matters is the connection captured.
But if you want to turn that moment into something print-worthy, timeless, and stress-free—we’re here.
Book your Milestone Graduation Package today. Let’s capture the hugs, the joy, and the pride—together.
Best Places for Graduation Photos in Riverside, California
Looking for the perfect location to capture your graduation photos in Riverside, California? This in-depth guide highlights the top photoshoot spots in the city for seniors, graduates, and families ready to celebrate a major milestone. From the iconic bell tower at UC Riverside and the charming streets of Downtown Riverside, to scenic natural parks like Mount Rubidoux and Fairmount Park, each location offers unique backdrops, lighting conditions, and storytelling opportunities for cap-and-gown portraits. Whether you're going for classic, editorial, or creative graduation photography, these Riverside locations provide everything you need for a session that feels personal, polished, and full of pride. Ideal for college grads, high school seniors, and professional photographers looking to scout new locations for graduation photo sessions.
A Photographer’s Guide to Stunning Senior Portraits and Cap & Gown Sessions
Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating—and what better way to honor the achievement than with professional graduation photos set against the diverse backdrops of Riverside, California? Whether you’re looking for iconic campus landmarks, lush gardens, or panoramic views, this city offers a variety of locations perfect for senior portraits and cap-and-gown photo sessions.
As professional photographers based in Southern California, we’ve scouted and shot across Riverside and know exactly where to find the best light, the most flattering angles, and the settings that help your personality shine.
Here are the top locations to consider for your Riverside graduation photoshoot:
1. UC Riverside Campus
Address: 900 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92521
The UC Riverside campus offers an incredible mix of modern architecture, quiet garden paths, and iconic landmarks that make it a top choice for college graduation photography in Riverside.
Best spots on campus:
UCR Bell Tower: A recognizable symbol of achievement. Perfect for wide-angle shots that capture you mid-walk in cap and gown or posing with your diploma.
Rivera Library Arches: Elegant and timeless. These arches create natural frames that draw focus to the graduate.
Botanic Gardens: Soft natural light filters through trees and floral backdrops—ideal for editorial-style senior portraits.
UCR Sign: Great for branding the shoot with school pride. Often used for celebratory champagne pop photos.
Photography tip: Schedule weekday sessions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture golden hour light. Use a 50mm lens for flattering portraits and a wider lens for campus landscape shots.
2. Downtown Riverside
Best for: Editorial graduation portraits, senior street style, urban-inspired backdrops
Downtown Riverside is a hidden gem for graduation photography with a more urban and polished feel. Its historic architecture and trendy corners offer a mix of old-world elegance and modern textures.
Key locations:
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa: Spanish-Mission-style arches, tiled walls, and romantic courtyards. Ideal for dramatic cap-and-gown poses or formal attire.
Riverside County Courthouse: The marble stairs and stately columns lend themselves to powerful, classic graduation portraits.
Side streets and murals near Main Street: Capture your personality against vibrant backdrops for more casual senior photos.
Photography tip: Play with contrast here—combine sharp lines of buildings with soft natural poses. Early morning and just before sunset offer the best directional light for these narrow streets.
3. Fairmount Park
Address: 2601 Fairmount Blvd, Riverside, CA 92501
A beautifully landscaped park featuring rose gardens, water views, and a mix of open and shaded spots. It’s a perfect location for laid-back, nature-based graduation portraits.
Highlights:
Lake Evans: Use the water as a natural reflector for glowing skin tones. Ideal for full-body cap-and-gown shots.
Rose Garden: Seasonal blooms offer a dreamy, romantic feel—especially with soft morning light or early evening warmth.
Curved bridges and tree-lined paths: Perfect for storytelling photos with movement—walking away, tossing your cap, or laughing over the shoulder.
Photography tip: For seniors who want a relaxed, timeless feel, bring a stool or blanket and use foreground elements like flowers or trees to frame the subject.
4. California Citrus State Historic Park
Address: 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, CA 92503
A truly unique location with lush citrus groves and rustic charm. This park brings agricultural beauty and rich California history together—perfect for seniors who want something different from the usual campus shots.
Why it’s great:
Orange groves: Offer rows of symmetry and leading lines. Beautiful for cap-in-hand, looking-ahead style portraits.
Wooden barn structures and farming equipment: Add character and a rustic vibe for seniors wanting a more grounded and natural feel.
Golden hour light: This park is west-facing, making sunset sessions absolutely magical with soft, golden tones.
Photography tip: This is one of Riverside’s best spots for backlit portraits. Bring a reflector or shoot wide open at f/2.0 to get that dreamy background blur.
5. Mount Rubidoux
Address: 4706 Mount Rubidoux Dr, Riverside, CA 92501
Mount Rubidoux is for the adventurous grad who wants to celebrate their milestone with a view. A short hike rewards you with stunning, wide-open vistas and one of the most iconic cross structures in Southern California.
Key elements for your shoot:
Summit Cross & Peace Tower: Historic, striking, and symbolic—makes for powerful hero shots of grads standing tall with diploma or cap.
Trailside candids: Document the journey up—perfect for story-driven portrait sessions.
Sunset & blue hour views: Few places in Riverside offer a better sky to close out a shoot.
Photography tip: Bring a neutral-toned blanket for sitting shots and don’t forget water. Sunrise sessions here are equally stunning and often less crowded.
Final Thoughts
Riverside has a diverse set of locations that cater to every kind of graduate—from those who want timeless elegance to those craving bold color or breathtaking views. Whether you’re a senior looking to document your journey or a proud parent ready to preserve the moment, the city provides incredible opportunities for memorable, story-rich photography.
Need help planning your Riverside graduation photoshoot? We’ll help you find the perfect location, the best time for lighting, and guide you every step of the way to ensure your images reflect everything this moment means to you.
Graduation Season is Here: Time to Book Your Grad Photos at These Iconic Southern California Campuses
Graduation season is here, and it’s time to book your grad photo session at one of Southern California’s most iconic campuses. Whether you're graduating from UCLA, USC, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, UC Riverside, CSU Fullerton, CSU Long Beach, San Diego State, Cal Poly Pomona, Chapman University, or LMU, this guide is packed with the best locations for cap and gown portraits, senior photos, and group graduation shoots. Learn how to pose with confidence, choose the right outfits and props, and find the perfect backdrop—from coastal views to historic buildings. Whether you're looking for traditional graduation photography, creative grad portraits, or social media-ready content, we've got everything you need to make your 2025 graduation photos unforgettable.
It’s that time of year again — the sun is shining, caps are flying, and graduates across Southern California are preparing to walk across the stage and into the next chapter of their lives. Whether you're a proud Bruin, a Triton, or a Trojan, this season deserves to be captured with timeless graduation portraits at the campuses that helped shape your journey.
At Last Minute Photoshoot, we know just how important it is to freeze this milestone in time. From the architectural beauty of UCLA’s Royce Hall to the palm-lined paths of San Diego State, Southern California is filled with stunning backdrops for graduation photography. Let’s explore the most popular campuses to book your grad photos and some key tips to help you get the most out of your session.
Top SoCal College Campuses for Grad Photos
University of California Campuses
UCLA (Los Angeles): Classic brick buildings, Janss Steps, and the iconic Royce Hall make this a dream location for graduation portraits.
UC San Diego (La Jolla): Known for Geisel Library and ocean views, UCSD grads can capture both innovation and nature in their shoot.
UC Irvine (Irvine): Aldrich Park, ring road fountains, and modern architecture create a vibrant setting for UCI graduates.
UC Riverside (Riverside): The Bell Tower and beautiful botanical gardens are must-haves for Highlanders.
UC Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara): While a bit farther north, UCSB offers ocean-side cliffs and palm tree-lined paths that scream coastal grad vibes.
California State Universities
CSU Long Beach: The blue pyramid and serene Japanese Gardens are iconic.
CSU Fullerton: Titan pride is real—capture it by the Student Union, Titan Gym, or with giant “CSUF” letters.
CSU Los Angeles: City views and palm trees meet academic pride in this East LA gem.
Cal Poly Pomona: For a rustic meets academic look, CPP’s scenic campus blends architecture with nature.
CSU Northridge: The Oviatt Library and Matador statue are must-shoot locations.
SDSU (San Diego): The Mission-style architecture and historic Hepner Hall set a classic graduation tone.
CSU San Bernardino: With a mountain backdrop and open quads, this Inland Empire school offers breathtaking views.
CSU Channel Islands: If you’re looking for something unique, this hidden gem near the coast boasts Spanish architecture and natural beauty.
Private Universities
USC (Los Angeles): Capture the legacy of the Trojans with portraits at Tommy Trojan, the reflecting pool, or the archways of Bovard Auditorium.
Pepperdine (Malibu): If you want ocean cliffs and dreamy sunsets, this is your place.
LMU (Los Angeles): With sweeping views of LA and a stunning chapel, LMU provides the perfect mix of modern and spiritual.
University of San Diego: USD’s Spanish Renaissance architecture and pristine gardens offer a luxurious, timeless feel.
Chapman University (Orange): Quaint yet polished—Chapman’s campus gives a boutique vibe to your grad session.
Claremont Colleges: From Pomona to Harvey Mudd, these liberal arts campuses offer everything from ivy-covered halls to mid-century academic flair.
Top Tips for Graduation Photos
Book Early: Graduation photographers get booked months in advance. Try to secure your session 6-8 weeks before your ceremony date.
Plan Your Outfit: Bring your cap and gown, stoles, cords, and even a second outfit for variety. Bonus: coordinate school colors to pop on camera.
Choose Meaningful Spots: Think about where you spent the most time on campus. The library, favorite statue, or a quiet garden might hold sentimental value.
Bring Props: Balloons, confetti, champagne bottles (for that classic pop!), or a sign with your degree can add personality.
Golden Hour Wins: Aim for early morning or late afternoon light for that warm, flattering glow.
Make It a Group Shoot: Save money and make memories with friends by booking a group graduation session.
Final Thoughts
Graduation is more than a moment — it’s the celebration of years of hard work, all-nighters, friendships, and growth. Whether you’re crossing the stage at a UC, CSU, or private university, your campus is part of your story. And your photos should reflect that.
We’ve helped grads across Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, and the Inland Empire create keepsakes that last a lifetime. From candid laughs with classmates to classic cap tosses, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Ready to Book Your Grad Session?
Let’s make your final walk through campus unforgettable. At Last Minute Photoshoot, we offer:
1-on-1 grad sessions
Group photo packages
Custom reels and edits for social media
Professional lighting, posing, and post-production
Same-week or next-day turnaround available for urgent requests
Limited slots are available now through June!
Book your session today at www.lastminutephotoshoot.com or DM us on Instagram @lastminutephotoshoot to reserve your date. We can’t wait to celebrate you!
