Best Locations for Graduation Photos at Sacramento State University
1. The Guy West Bridge
Now this location is absolutely iconic! It speaks for itself.. C’mon, it’s essentially Sacramento’s mini Golden Gate Bridge right here on Sac State’s campus. It’s easily one of the most requested locations along with the actual Sacramento State University sign. This bridge is the connecting piece between campus and University Avenue which is home to many Sac State students. It’s a nice detour while riding your bike along the American Rive Bike Trail as well. If you’ve never seen it in person, I recommend taking a stroll through campus and the connecting bike trails. It’s peaceful and so beautiful when the weather is nice.
2. Bike Path Near The Quad
While I don’t know the official name for this location, it is absolutely my favorite! When I time it just right, I’ve noticed that the sun sets right behind this bike path, giving me the most beautiful golden light to backlight my grad clients. It’s right by the quad and has plenty of table space to set your items on during a photoshoot. The only con is all of the bikes buzzing through but at the end of the day, this is technically their road and it’s only right to be respectful of each other. So if you shoot here, watch your back for the bicyclists and make sure to step out of the way as they ride by,
3. Solano Hall Stairs
There are a few iconic stairways at Sac State and this is one of them! I don’t shoot here often because it’s out of my usual loop that I stick to, but I am in love with the architecture. The leading lines from the rails help bring your focus back to the graduate, plus the lighting is really nice which is essential for natural light photography. It can get busy so make sure to either go during slower hours or make sure to give yourself enough time to wait for other grads to finish. Also, if the majority of your classes are at Solano Hall and you want a photo with their sign, there is a beautiful flower bush behind it which makes for great shots.
4. Eureka Hall Stairs
These are also popular steps with great leading lines from the railings. Plus, if you angle it just right, there are two light at the top of the stairs that make for a cool dynamic image. These steps are a great option if the more popular ones are taken. Thanks to Pinterest, taking photos on stairways has become very popular so it’s important to point out all of the options on Sac State’s campus.
5. Near Riverside Hall
Similar to the bike path near the quad, I don’t know what to call this area other than the area near Riverside Hall, or at the bottom of the stairs that lead to the bridge. All I know is, whenever I take pictures here, the lighting is perfect! It’s so golden and warm which works perfectly with how I edit photos. This is also a very popular spot for more staircase photos. Sacramento State is such a beautiful green campus, you can get great photos just about anywhere.
6. Rose Garden
This location is the perfect spot for a Spring graduate! Sacramento State is known for its beautiful greenery and all of the gorgeous nature and this patch of roses really highlights that. Known as the Founders Rose Garden, this rose garden is in dedication to Stephen Walker whom was a founding administrator of what used to be known as Sacramento State College in 1947. It was put together by his wife, Charlotte, to uphold his memory. Such a beautiful piece of Sac State history! Click the link above to learn more about this rose garden and other hidden gems on campus.
7. Sacramento State Arboretum
Another favorite is the University Arboretum along J Street. It was created in 1959 after the U.S. National Arboretum donated 50 trees to the campus. Currently, it is home to around 1,300 species of plants from around the world. If you’ve never checked it out, it’s worth taking a stroll through while admiring all of the nature.
8. Sacramento State Sign (J Street)
Last but not least, the Sacramento State sign is one of the most iconic locations for graduation photos. Personally, my favorite sign is the one along J Street right by the arboretum. If you plan it just right, you can get some really beautiful golden to add the perfect touch to the photos. Please be aware that if you are doing grad photos in April or May, you will have to wait in line for this location, so plan accordingly. & Photographers.. If you’re taking photos here or other iconic locations and a long line forms, please be courteous enough to get your shots and go. We all want to get the perfect photo! :)
How To Book Your Graduation Photoshoot
Check out my graduation photo gallery to make sure that my editing/shooting style matches the vibe you’re going for. I like my images to be warm, natural, and vibrant; if you prefer dark and moody or a high fashion/editorial look, we probably aren’t a good fit.
Fill out my contact form so I can get back to you within 48 hours. Please include any relevant details such as the campus you’re graduating from, if you prefer photos on campus or elsewhere, if you’ll be bringing your parents, etc.
Secure your photoshoot date with a non-refundable payment and signed contract. 50% of your total is due at the time of booking to reserve your time slot, and the remaining balance is due 1 week before your session.
Find the perfect outfit, do some self care, and get EXCITED for your photoshoot! You’re graduating after all!! :)