California State University San Marcos is known for being one of the smaller CSU campuses, but that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of beautiful locations on campus to take your graduation photos. One of the great perks about taking grad photos at the CSU San Marcos campus is how close they all are to each other. And with it’s overall smaller student population, these spots are usually not too crowded during grad season. Meaning, you don’t have to wait 20 minutes just to take photos in front of an iconic spot!
Here’s a list of some of my all time favorite grad photo spots at CSUSM!
1. Markstein hall
One of the most popular places at CSUSM to take your grad photos is in front of Markstein, due to it’s more modern architecture and tall palm trees framing the staircase. The plaza in front of the entrance of Markstein is also a great place to get photos in front of the doors, CSUSM flags, and overlooking Palm Court.
2. palm court
Located just one level below Markstein Hall, you’ll find a full court of palm trees that is a perfect backdrop for your CSUSM graduation photos. A popular place to pop off a bottle of champagne, take photos under the arches of the neighboring Academic Hall, or pose in your graduation attire underneath the palms.
3. academic hall arches
Right next to Palm Court are the arches of the Academic Building. Try experimenting with different poses in between the arches, or take some photos on the sidewalk or grass area nearby.
4. university hall Archway
This one usually gets missed by a lot of grads, but the photos here are so beautiful! Don’t forget to stop by University Hall before walking under the arch to your next grad photo location.
5. gonzalez grove
If you love greenery, this spot is absolutely magic! Gonzalez Grove produces some of the most beautiful CSUSM graduation photos, especially a few hours before sunset when golden light filters through the trees.
6. chavez plaza bench
On the walk between the USU/Chavez Plaza and SBSB, there’s a hidden gem: a bench overlooking Chavez Circle with views of the Extended Learning Building and North City. In both the spring and fall time, you'll have beautiful colors in the trees behind you.
7. social & behavioral sciences building (SBSB)
This spot is great for landscape shots if this is your major’s building! The CSUSM blue stoles really pop with the green and orange building accents.
8. the library
The library offers creative indoor options for your CSUSM grad photos. Think walking through the aisles, stacked books as props, or artistic shots between the shelves. Taking grad photos here can be especially meaningful if you've spent long nights studying here.
9. the stairs
A classic. You can take your photos going up or down the main staircase, or pose at the top with the sunset and flags behind you. You really can't go wrong. This is one of CSUSM's most famous grad photo locations for a reason.
10. admin building rotunda
One of the most iconic photos you can take at CSUSM — throwing your cap up into the rotunda! But don't forget about the beautiful lookout point directly to the right of the building that you can use to get some more great grad shots.
Ready to take your CSUSM grad photos?
hi, i'm kiyomi
I'm a North County San Diego photographer specializing in college grads, seniors, and couples portraits. I first picked up my camera when I was 15 years old, and what started as a creative hobby quickly turned into a full-on passion. For the past two years I’ve been professionally capturing milestone moments for incredible seniors, grads, couples, and growing families. My goal is always to capture your joy, and I can’t wait to create images you’ll treasure for years to come.