Bay Area graduation photography
CSU East Bay Graduation Photographer
Graduation portraits at CSU East Bay with clear direction and a smooth, efficient session. I plan the campus route around light and timing so you're never standing around wondering what happens next.
About this location
Grad sessions at CSUEB
CSU East Bay's Hayward Hills campus has a mix of architectural variety and natural surroundings that photograph well year-round. The hillside setting creates some unique elevation and skyline framing opportunities not available on flat urban campuses. I know the spots that photograph best and how to route the session so we cover variety without wasting time.
CSU East Bay sessions include a $30 travel fee from San Francisco.
Spring commencement at CSUEB typically falls in late May. Send an inquiry early if you need a specific date.
What's included
Every grad session includes
✓Professionally guided posing and direction throughout
✓Multiple on-campus location selections
✓50+ professionally edited images
✓Private online gallery with download link
✓Up to 2-week standard turnaround
✓Clear communication from inquiry to delivery
Campus locations
Where we shoot at CSUEB
Meiklejohn Hall
The main academic building with recognizable architecture. Steps, columns, and the surrounding plaza offer classic graduation portrait options.
Student Union Area
Central hub with open space and mixed shade. Works well for group shots and candid movement frames.
Pioneer Heights Overlook
Elevated campus areas with views of the Bay. Adds geographic context and a different visual dimension to the gallery.
Campus Greens
Landscaped open areas with mature trees. Good for relaxed individual portraits away from the main architectural backdrops.
See all CSUEBgraduation photo spots & the best time for each →
New to grad photos? The Bay Area graduation photo guide covers what to wear, posing, how to prepare, and the best campus spots before your session.
Quick reference
Starting rate
$350 / hour
Session length
1, 1.5, 2 hours
Retainer
50% non-refundable
Balance
Due on or before the session date
Turnaround
Up to 2 weeks
Delivery
Private online gallery
Response time
Within 24 hours
Timing & light
Best time for CSUEB grad photos
The Hayward Hills campus is built for golden hour — the elevation opens up Bay and skyline views that glow late in the day. Meiklejohn Hall and the central plazas photograph well in the afternoon, then we finish at the Pioneer Heights overlook as the sun drops for the wide, editorial frames.
Wardrobe
What to wear at CSUEB
With big sky and Bay views behind you, mid-tone and warmer colors stand out against the blue backdrop. The hilltop gets breezy in the late afternoon, so structured fabrics and a light layer hold up better than anything that catches the wind.
Common questions
CSUEB grad photo FAQ
What makes CSU East Bay good for grad photos?
The hilltop setting — few Bay Area campuses offer the elevation and skyline views you get from Pioneer Heights. It adds a sense of place you can't get on a flat urban campus.
When's the best time of day to shoot at CSUEB?
Golden hour, hands down. The late-afternoon light on the hills and the Bay views behind you are hard to beat for wide, editorial portraits.
What are the main photo spots on campus?
Meiklejohn Hall, the Student Union area, the Campus Greens, and the Pioneer Heights overlook for the skyline shots.
When should I book for CSUEB commencement?
Spring commencement is usually late May, so send an inquiry early if you need a specific date during that window.
Client experiences
What Bay Area grads say about working with me
Recent graduates from across the Bay Area on their session with me.
“Chris did my SJSU grad photos and I was absolutely in love with them! He is professional, knowledgeable, and knows how to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera. He guides you through the entire shoot, has a fast turnaround, and his knowledge of local Bay Area schools is helpful because he knows all the good spots to shoot at. Highly, highly recommend 😇”
“Chris exceeded my expectations, I'm so happy I booked my graduation shoot with him! Super professional, easy to work with, and the photoshoot was fun! During the session, he made me feel comfortable and gave great direction while still making everything feel natural. My photos turned out beautiful, I'll definitely be cherishing them!”
Plan your session
Everything for your CSUEB grad shoot
More Bay Area campuses
Other campuses I shoot
Ready to book your CSUEB grad session?
Send the date, campus, and headcount. I’ll reply within 24 hours with availability and next steps.