Graduating from UCSB is a HUGE milestone! Your grad photos should capture this moment before it becomes a memory.

Inside this guide you'll learn how to:

— Choose the best photo locations on campus

— Feel confident and natural in front of the camera

— Use simple props that elevate your photos

— Pick the best time of day for dreamy lighting

Whether you're booking a session or taking photos with friends, these tips will help you create grad photos you'll love for years.

5 Easy Grad Poses That Always Look Natural

If you feel awkward in photos, you’re not alone. Most people do. The key to natural photos is movement and interaction rather than stiff posing.

Stole over the shoulder

Timeless classic pose that looks good on everyone + it features your graduation year on the stole!

Grad Cap toss!

IMO, no grad photo session is complete without the celebratory grad cap toss. Super simple pose that is natural and candid.

Candid Moment — Read a book!

The best part of this pose is that you don't even have to try. Take a quiet moment to hold your fav book (or textbook) and relax.

Champagne Pop Moment!

Whether you're solo or with a group of friends, this always brings out REAL smiles and reactions. Super fun way to get candids!

Wave the Stole Around

I love this as a closing pose on the beach! It's giving: a hint of nostalgia, and also a wholesome vibe as you close out this special chapter!

What to Bring to Your Grad Photo Session

Simple props can make your photos more fun and personal.

Here are a few ideas:

— Champagne: Perf for celebration photos.

— Your Cap + Gown: Classic and timeless.

— Stole + Cords: These highlight your achievements from your time at UCSB.

— A Friend / Partner / Family: Bringing someone along can help you relax + create fun candid moments.

Best Time of Day for Grad Photos

Lighting makes a HUGE difference in how your photos turn out.

Golden hour (about 1-2 hours before sunset) is the best time for soft, glowing light and flattering skin tones.

Early mornings can also be great because:

— Campus is quieter

— Lighting is soft

— Popular locations are less crowded

Midday sun can be harsh, so professional photographers usually avoid it when possible.

A Quick Note From Your Photographer

Hi, I’m Jasmin! As a proud UCSB alum, I know how special this season is because I remember EXACTLY how it felt to reach this milestone.

My goal during grad sessions is to help you feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated while capturing photos that feel natural and true to YOU!

If you're thinking about planning your own grad session, I would LOVE to help you create photos that celebrate this moment and everything you’ve accomplished.

GRAD PACKAGE PRICES:

1-2 GRADS

— 1-2 locations per hour

— 60+ images sent via online gallery

— Mix of solo and duo pictures

— Option to add 35mm film:

$100 per set of 20-30 photos

Price is per hour, not per person

$400 / hr

3-4 GRADS

— 1-2 locations per hour

— 100+ images sent via online gallery

— Mix of solo, duo, and group pictures

— Option to add 35mm film:

$100 per set of 20-30 photos

Price is per hour, not per person

$450 / hr

5-6 GRADS

Best valued package!

— 1 location per hour

— 150+ images sent via online gallery

— Mix of solo, duo, and group pictures

— Option to add 35mm film:

$100 per set of 20-30 photos

Price is per hour, not per person

$550 / hr

7+ GrADS

— 1 location per hour

— 150+ images sent via online gallery

— Mix of group, small group, trios, and duos

— Organized shot flow so nothing is missed

— Option to add 35mm film:

$100 per set of 20-30 photos

$100 / person per hour

FAQ

Can my friends or family join for photos?

Yes! Family, friends, and pets are welcome to join for a few photos and cheer you on at no extra charge. If friends would like their own solo photos, please book a group session.

What is the payment process?

No deposit is required to book. Full payment is due the day of your session. You can pay via Venmo, Zelle, or credit/debit card.

What is your turnaround time?

Your full gallery will be delivered within 2 weeks. If your session is close to commencement weekend, I’ll send a few preview photos so you have images to share on graduation day.

What if the weather is gloomy or rainy?

Cloudy spring days are common in Santa Barbara and still photograph beautifully, so sessions typically continue as planned. If it’s raining or extremely foggy, I’ll reach out to reschedule.