UCLA Grad Pictures & Senior Portraits

UCLA Grad Photos That Feel Like You

You have put in the work, survived midterms and finals, and spent years walking across UCLA in Westwood, Los Angeles on your way to class. Now it is time to celebrate all of that effort with graduation photos that actually feel like you—not stiff, cookie-cutter pictures that could belong to anyone.

Our UCLA graduation sessions are designed around real students who want images that look natural, flattering, and fun. We know the best angles, the most flattering light, and how to pose you so you look confident without feeling awkward. Whether you want solo portraits, photos with friends, or a full family session, we will help you create images you will be proud to share and print.

Best UCLA Spots for Grad Pictures

Because we have photographed many graduation sessions on campus at UCLA, we know which locations look amazing on camera and when they look their best. Some of the most popular spots for UCLA grad photos include:

• Royce Hall: Classic brick arches every Bruin recognizes; perfect for cap-and-gown portraits and timeless, formal images.
• Janss Steps: A favorite spot for walking shots, cap tosses and big group photos with friends or family.
• Powell Library: An iconic academic backdrop for portraits that feel scholarly and classic.
• Bruin Bear: A must-have stop for fun, spirited photos that show your UCLA pride.
• Kerckhoff and nearby courtyards: Beautiful arches and softer light with a little more privacy.
• Bruin Walk and surrounding greens: Great for relaxed, lifestyle-style portraits that feel like everyday campus life.

If you already have a favorite corner of UCLA in Westwood, Los Angeles that means something to you, we can absolutely build that into your session plan. This is your story and your time at UCLA—your photos should reflect that.

What Is Included in a UCLA Graduation Session

Every graduation session is a little different, but a typical UCLA grad photoshoot usually includes:

• Pre-session planning: We will talk about outfits, locations, timing, and any must-have shots (family, friends, or significant others).
• Multiple looks: Cap and gown, a dress or suit, and a more casual outfit are all welcome.
• Guided posing: You will never be left wondering what to do with your hands; we will guide you through every pose.
• Solo and group photos: Time for individual portraits plus options for roommate, friend, or family photos.
• UCLA campus or studio (or both): Many grads choose a mix of classic campus locations and clean studio portraits.
• Details show up: hair, nails, and simple accessories will all be visible in close-up shots.

We are happy to help you plan outfits in advance, especially for group sessions where you want everyone to coordinate without looking too matched.

Props and Personal Touches

Adding personal details is a great way to make your grad session feel unique. Some ideas our graduates like to include are:

• Cap and gown, plus your stole, cords, or honor regalia.
• Flowers or leis from family and friends.
• Champagne or sparkling cider to pop at the end of the session.
• Signs or items that show your major or future plans.
• Anything that represents your time at the school: textbooks, instruments, sports gear, or club apparel.

If you are not sure what to bring, we can suggest a few options based on your major, activities, and the overall look you want.

Friends, Roommates, and Family Sessions

Graduation is a milestone that many people help you reach, and it can be even more meaningful to include them in your photos. We often photograph:

• Roommate and friend groups who want fun, candid-style photos together.
• Couples sessions for grads who met in college and want to remember this chapter of their story.
• Family portraits before or after the ceremony, including parents, siblings, and grandparents.

If you are planning a group session, we will help organize the flow of the shoot so everyone gets the images they want without feeling rushed.

UCLA Campus vs. Studio Portraits

Many grads choose to combine UCLA campus photos with classic studio portraits. This gives you a nice mix of images you can use in different ways:

• On-campus portraits that show off the architecture, landscaping, and atmosphere of your school.
• Studio portraits with clean, timeless backgrounds that are perfect for resumes, LinkedIn, or professional use.

We can structure your session to include both options if you like, or focus entirely on campus if that is your priority.

Planning, Parking, and Timing

Campuses can be large and busy, especially during graduation season. When you book, we will go over practical details like:

• Where to meet at the start of your session.
• How much walking is involved and whether we should keep locations close together.
• Parking suggestions or drop-off points near your first location.
• Accessibility considerations for any family members who may be joining.

A little planning up front helps your session run smoothly so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

After Your Session: Viewing and Ordering

After your photoshoot, your images will be carefully selected and edited. You will receive access to an online gallery where you can:

• View all of your finished grad photos.
• Mark favorites to use for announcements, social media, and prints.
• Order prints, wall art, or albums to share with family and friends.

Whether you want just a few favorite images or a full collection, we will help you choose options that make sense for you.

Why Work With a Photographer Who Knows UCLA

Photographing graduation sessions on campus at UCLA takes more than just a nice camera. Experience on the actual campus matters. Because we have worked with many graduates at UCLA in Westwood, Los Angeles, we know:

• Which locations look best at different times of day.
• How to work around crowds and still get clean, beautiful images.
• How to move quickly between spots so you get a lot of variety in a short amount of time.
• Which angles flatter both you and the background scenery.

That knowledge helps you get more from your session and reduces stress on a day that is already full of activity.

Ready to Book Your UCLA Grad Session?

Your time at UCLA in Westwood, Los Angeles is something you will remember for the rest of your life. Graduation photos are a way to mark that accomplishment and share it with the people who helped you get there. If you are ready to start planning your UCLA grad pictures, we would love to talk.

Use the contact form on this site or give us a call to ask about availability. Tell us a little about your major, your preferred dates, and whether you want solo, group, or family photos, and we will help you plan a session that fits your schedule and style.