5 spots to take
cal poly slo grad photos.
Established on the Central Coast, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo was the first polytechnic university to be established in California. Sitting about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, the school is one of the largest in the nation and uses the land for its active pursuit of the university’s motto – “Learn By Doing.”
Here are five spots to take grad photos at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
1. cal poly sign.
On Cal Poly’s campus, there are two of these signs. Personally, I recommend this one since it has a more pleasing background with trees.
The sign is huge though, so it’s very common to take isolated photos like the one below – I cut off the “State University” part of the sign. Also, this is the most popular location at this school, so don’t be surprised to see tons of grads gathered around this area.
Directions to the sign: Google // Apple
2. california boulevard crosswalks.
Right next to the sign, at the intersection of California Boulevard and Campus Way is a crosswalk that bears the name of the school, “Cal Poly.” It’s painted green, matching the colors of the school, and also has towering palm trees in the background.
And yes, it’s a public road, but it’s extremely common for grads to take photos here. Drivers normally expect this spot to be busy during grad season, so don’t worry about blocking the road. Just be respectful and after drivers come to a complete stop at the sign, let them pass.
Directions to the crosswalks: Google // Apple
3. mustang memorial plaza.
This plaza sits near Cal Poly’s football stadium and acts as the entrance for people attending sporting events. In the center, a bronze mustang statue called Unbridled Spirit stands proudly. If you’re planning on trying to get on top, just be really careful.
Directions to the statue: Google // Apple
4. orfalea college of business breezeway.
Compared to the rest of Cal Poly’s campus, the breezeway of Orfaelea College of Business features tall off-white pillars. Along with the surrounding environment of the trees, this spot provides a great frame for your graduation portraits.
Directions to the building: Google // Apple
5. terrace hill open space.
I’m not the biggest fan of shooting off-campus, but given the lack of photo spots at Cal Poly, my grads will usually want to take their grad photos here as well. Terrace Hill Open Space is aptly named because of its huge expansive area. It’s a little bit of a hike to the top, but when you get there, it’s worth it for the stunning view of the hills and part of San Luis Obispo.
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