Bay Area graduation photography
USF Graduation Photographer
Graduation portraits at the University of San Francisco — a beautiful campus with strong architecture and one of the best views in the city. No travel fee, and the option to extend into nearby SF locations.
About this location
Grad sessions at USF
USF has one of the most visually distinctive campuses in San Francisco — St. Ignatius Church, the Lone Mountain steps, and the view corridors toward the city skyline all photograph exceptionally well. Being located in San Francisco also means no travel fee and the flexibility to add nearby locations if you want more variety in the gallery.
No travel fee for San Francisco locations.
USF commencement is typically in late May. Early inquiries are recommended for peak spring dates.
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 USF
St. Ignatius Church
The architectural centerpiece of USF. The steps and facade are classic for formal portraits, and the interior light is beautiful for detail shots.
Lone Mountain Steps
Iconic location with panoramic views of San Francisco. Works especially well in late afternoon and golden hour.
Kalmanovitz Hall
Modern architecture with clean lines and shade. Good option for a different visual texture within the same session.
Campus Green / Quad Area
Open lawn with good shade from mature trees. Relaxed and versatile for group shots or candid frames.
See all USFgraduation 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 USF grad photos
Lone Mountain and the city-view corridors are made for late afternoon and golden hour, when San Francisco's light turns warm and even. Coastal fog is common — and overcast days are actually ideal at USF, because the soft light keeps white gowns clean and avoids harsh shadows on the St. Ignatius steps.
Wardrobe
What to wear at USF
USF's grey stone and the bright city backdrop suit classic, slightly richer colors that won't wash out against the sky. Layers are smart — the Lone Mountain hilltop can be windy and cool even in late spring, so a wrap or jacket between frames keeps you comfortable.
Common questions
USF grad photo FAQ
Is there a travel fee for a USF session?
No — USF is in San Francisco, so there's no travel fee. We can also extend the session to nearby SF spots if you want more variety in the gallery.
What are the best photo spots at USF?
St. Ignatius Church, the Lone Mountain steps with their city views, Kalmanovitz Hall, and the campus green. The Lone Mountain panorama is the standout.
What if it's foggy or overcast on our session day?
That's often the best light at USF — soft, even, and flattering, with no harsh shadows. Fog rarely cancels a session; it usually makes the photos better.
When does USF hold commencement?
USF commencement is typically in late May, which is peak season, so early inquiries are recommended for spring dates.
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 USF grad shoot
More Bay Area campuses
Other campuses I shoot
Ready to book your USF grad session?
Send the date, campus, and headcount. I’ll reply within 24 hours with availability and next steps.