CSU Long Beach Graduation Photographer
CSULB has a lot more to work with than most people expect. The campus is beautifully landscaped with wide open plazas, mature trees, a variety of architectural styles, and a few genuinely unique landmarks that make for graduation portraits unlike any other campus in Southern California. And you are minutes from the Long Beach waterfront, which means two completely different worlds in one session.
I shoot Cal State Long Beach graduation sessions during both fall and spring semesters.
Where We Shoot at CSULB
The Walter Pyramid is one of the most recognizable structures on any CSU campus and one of the most unique graduation portrait backdrops in all of Southern California. The massive aluminum pyramid is bold, striking, and immediately communicates CSULB. It is the defining image of this campus.
Liberal Arts buildings and central campus offer classic university architecture with wide plazas and open space that photographs beautifully throughout the day.
The Japanese Garden on campus is a hidden gem that most CSULB graduates overlook entirely. It offers a peaceful, lush setting with water features, bridges, and greenery that is completely different from anywhere else on campus — and it photographs beautifully.
Lawn and garden areas throughout campus provide natural, relaxed backdrops with beautiful greenery and soft light for a change of pace from the architectural spots.
Long Beach waterfront and Shoreline Village are just minutes away and make for a perfect add-on. The marina, the lighthouse, and the open water create a stunning contrast with campus portraits and give your gallery incredible variety.
Belmont Shore is another nearby option for graduates who want that classic Southern California beach lifestyle feel in their graduation photos.
When to Book Your CSULB Graduation Session
Cal State Long Beach graduation sessions are available fall and spring. Reach out at least 4 to 6 weeks before your graduation date to secure your spot. Spring ceremony season fills quickly — May dates book first.
What to Expect
Sessions are relaxed, fully guided, and planned around you. We move through 2 to 4 locations and I handle all posing so you feel comfortable and confident in every frame. A sneak peek lands in your inbox that same evening. Galleries are delivered within one week through a private online gallery.
What to Wear for CSULB Graduation Photos
For campus portraits, earth tones, deep blues, and rich neutrals photograph beautifully against CSULB’s varied architecture and greenery. For waterfront add-ons, lighter fabrics and coastal palettes work well. Most graduates bring 2 to 3 outfits plus their cap and gown. I send a full prep guide before every session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Walter Pyramid the best CSULB graduation photo location?
It is the most distinctive — there is nothing else like it at any other California campus. But the Japanese Garden and the campus green spaces offer beautiful variety that keeps the gallery from feeling like one backdrop. I typically include the Pyramid and 2 to 3 other locations.
Can I add the Long Beach waterfront to my CSULB session?
Yes — the Long Beach waterfront and Shoreline Village are both about 10 minutes from campus. It is one of the most popular add-ons for CSULB sessions and gives your gallery the campus-plus-coast combination that California graduation portraits are known for.
How long is a CSULB graduation session?
Campus-only sessions run about 1 to 1.5 hours. Adding the waterfront or beach extends the session to 2 to 3 hours depending on travel time between locations.
How much does a CSULB graduation session cost?
Full pricing is on my pricing page. Sessions include professional editing, multiple locations, and a private online gallery.
How soon will I get my CSULB graduation photos?
Your edited gallery is delivered within 1 week of your session. You receive a private link to download, share, and order prints.
Ready to Book Your CSULB Graduation Session?
Spots fill fast around spring graduation season at Cal State Long Beach. Contact me early to lock in your date.
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