7 spots to take
UC San Diego grad photos.
The University of California’s southernmost campus sits in San Diego, or more specifically, the neighborhood of La Jolla. Geisel Library and Scripps Pier both serve as UCSD’s most popular spots for graduation portraits.
This guide focuses on these two locations, so you can get a better idea of what to expect when doing grad photos at the University of California, San Diego.
geisel library.
One of the most iconic looking buildings in the UC system and the absolute most popular spot for grad season at UC San Diego. If you spent a lot of time in Geisel, then yes – it’s your go-to spot for your graduation photos.
1. in front of geisel.
If you’re looking to capture the unique architecture of the library, this is the spot for you. Photos from this corner frame the behemoth that is Geisel Library.
To avoid having the sun on your face, you’ll want to do the opposite of where it is. So, in the mornings, you’ll want the left side of the library – the Cognitive Science Building behind you. In the afternoons, you’ll want the right side, so Price Center is behind you instead.
2. geisel’s “third floor.”
Geisel Library doesn’t actually have a third floor that you can physically go to, but you could consider the outside space around the library to be the “third floor.” The gray background might seem bland to some, but the concrete and cement act as fantastic reflectors of light.
3. library walk.
If you’re looking for symmetry in your photos this is the spot for you. It’s the walkway leading up to the entrance of the library. Just be aware that people walk down this path to get to the library, so it can get pretty busy.
4. from warren mall.
If you go down towards Warren Mall — the School of Engineering area — there’s a grassy area right before Snake Path. The sun sets right behind the library making it perfect for rim-like backlit shots.
Directions to Geisel Library: Google // Apple
ellie browning scripps memorial pier.
Simply known as Scripps Pier, this location is very stereotypical for San Diego and a must-add for anyone graduating from UCSD. Just be aware that this beach is open to the public, so it can sometimes be crowded with surfers and swimmers.
Also, it’s common to see other types of photographers here, so certain areas can be taken up by others getting their photos done.
5. underneath the pier.
Scripps’ most popular spot. Grads can easily frame themselves between the columns of the pier. Just be aware of the tide because sometimes the water will literally go up to the walls of the beach and the water will be at your knees.
Another note — during grad season, there will most likely be a line underneath the pier. If you really want this spot, consider coming here early to wait in line.
6. pier in the background.
Scripps Pier is considered an icon for the university as a whole as well as their division, Scripps Oceanography. This shot will give you more space to move around and get some dynamic shots with the pier in the back.
7. cliffs in the background.
Face north, and you’ll have a cool shot with the cliffs in the background. A great alternative when you’re done taking photos with the pier.
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