Graduation Photoshoot at Balboa Park and Nearby Beach: The Ultimate San Diego Senior Session Itinerary
Planning your graduation photoshoot in San Diego? Whether you're a high school senior, college graduate, or celebrating a milestone with family, this guide to shooting at Balboa Park and Windansea Beach is packed with everything you need to know. From the best places to take graduation pictures at Balboa Park—like the Lily Pond, Casa del Prado Theater, and the Organ Pavilion—to golden hour portraits on the rugged coastline of La Jolla, this blog outlines the perfect two-location shoot. We also break down what to wear, what props to bring, and whether you’ll need a photography permit at these iconic San Diego locations. If you’re looking for a photographer who knows how to capture your cap-and-gown moment with both elegance and personality, this one’s for you. Whether you're local to Southern California or visiting for your senior session, this is your go-to resource for graduation photography in Balboa Park and nearby La Jolla beaches.
Cover Image Courtesy of Joshua Hoehne
Planning a graduation photoshoot in San Diego? Whether you’re a high school senior, college graduate, or celebrating a postgraduate milestone, combining Balboa Park and a nearby beach like Windansea creates the perfect day of portraits with two stunning backdrops. Located just minutes apart, this San Diego graduation photography itinerary offers historic architecture, botanical beauty, and dramatic sunset coastlines—all in one session.
Balboa Park graduation photos are some of the most requested for a reason. With Spanish-Renaissance architecture, blooming gardens, and textured corridors, it’s ideal for both cap-and-gown and lifestyle shots. Add in a second location like Windansea Beach in La Jolla, and you’ll get a totally different look with golden hour cliffs, waves, and coastal charm.
If you’re a local student looking for the best places to take graduation pictures in San Diego, or a visiting grad wanting to capture your celebration with California vibes, this guide will break down everything you need to know—from top photo spots and permit tips to outfit ideas and exact addresses. Let’s dive in and create a session that celebrates your hard work with beautiful, timeless portraits.
Image Courtesy of Joshua Hoehne
A sea of graduates in cap and gown, moments before turning their tassels—San Diego is filled with unforgettable backdrops like Balboa Park and Windansea Beach for capturing your senior year in style. Ready to book your own graduation photoshoot? Let’s create something timeless.
Balboa Park offers timeless architecture, lush gardens, and golden-hour light—perfect for graduation photos that feel classic and full of life. Whether you're wrapping high school, college, or something in between, let’s make it unforgettable.
👉 Book Your Graduation Shoot
First Stop: Balboa Park – The Heart of San Diego
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Balboa Park is a photographer’s dream, offering lush gardens, Spanish-Renaissance architecture, and vibrant pathways. For graduation photos, you’ll want to hit these top photo spots:
Iconic Photo Locations in Balboa Park:
The Lily Pond & Botanical Building – Beautiful reflection shots and lush greenery.
Casa del Prado Theater – Ornate arches and textured walls, perfect for cap & gown portraits.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion – Grand stairs and columns add a classic feel.
Alcazar Garden – Low hedges, tile fountains, and colorful blooms during spring/summer.
The Museum Corridor (El Prado) – A scenic walkway with plenty of diffused light and symmetry.
Photography Tips for Balboa Park:
Morning light is soft and golden—perfect if you want to avoid crowds.
Bring a variety of outfits (cap & gown, casual, formal) to match different vibes.
Pack light—it’s a walkable park, but you’ll want to stay nimble.
Use a fast lens (f/1.8 – f/2.8) for that soft bokeh against architectural backdrops.
Capture motion—tossing the cap, walking shots, or confetti pops look great here!
Second Location: Windansea Beach in La Jolla
Just 20–25 minutes from Balboa Park, Windansea Beach is an intimate, rugged coastline perfect for golden hour shots.
Address: 6800 Neptune Pl, La Jolla, CA 92037
Best Time to Shoot: 5:30 PM to Sunset (golden hour magic)
Parking: Free street parking (arrive early!)
Why Windansea Beach?
Iconic surf shack adds character to wide-angle shots.
Dramatic rock formations + soft sand = contrast-heavy compositions.
Usually less crowded than La Jolla Shores or Pacific Beach.
Stunning sunset color palette—from amber to deep purples.
Beach Photography Tips:
Plan for tide timing. Low tide gives more rock access.
Bring backup shoes—rock formations can be slick or sandy.
Use ND filters if you’re shooting around sunset for dreamy waves.
Watch the wind—loose hair or gowns add drama, but clips and pins help when needed.
Don’t forget sunscreen and water!
Do You Need a Permit to Shoot at Balboa Park or Windansea?
Balboa Park:
Yes—for commercial photography, you’re technically required to have a permit through the City of San Diego Parks & Recreation Film Office. However, small shoots with handheld gear (like graduation sessions without lighting setups or tripods) are usually tolerated. Just avoid blocking walkways or disrupting public use.
Windansea Beach:
La Jolla beaches fall under the same city jurisdiction. Again, a permit is required for large productions, props, or lighting. Casual portrait sessions with handheld cameras are generally okay, especially if you're discreet and respectful.
Permit Info Contact:
City of San Diego Filming Permits
Phone: (619) 685-1340
What to Bring for a Graduation Photoshoot
Cap, gown, tassel, sash
Multiple outfits (formal + casual)
Comfy shoes for walking
Clear umbrella or sunglasses (if midday)
Props: balloons, flowers, champagne pop, framed diploma, or college swag
Towels (for beach sand/water)
A change of clothes for beach shots
Mini touch-up kit (lip gloss, powder, brush)
Why Book Your Graduation Photos with Us?
We’re Son & Steph—a husband and wife photography team based in San Jacinto, California. We specialize in last-minute bookings, natural light portraits, and creating a relaxed, fun environment that brings out your best side. Whether it’s your high school cap & gown or a college celebration with your pup, we capture the full experience.
Let’s celebrate this milestone together—Balboa Park, the beach, or both.
We handle location scouting, posing guidance, and even last-minute wardrobe tips so you can focus on the moment.