PHOTO SESSIONS FOR COLLEGE GRADS | CLASS OF 2025
Merced Grad photos for graduates from UC Merced, Merced College, and Stanislaus State University
HEY, YOU MADE IT 🎓
You put in the work, pulled the all-nighters, got through the group projects, and now the time has come.
You are graduating!
Seriously, congrats on this huge accomplishment. Your academic journey through the past few years to get your degree is worthy of celebration, and your grad photo session is just the start.
Here, we’re about celebrating this moment because it’s amazing and it matters.
You’ve worked hard through tough courses and late nights to get here, so let’s make it count.
Your grad session isn’t just about smiling for the camera it’s about taking a second to honor how far you’ve come!
Hey Grad! I’m Sara, your grad session photographer.
Graduating can feel surreal. One minute you’re presenting your capstone projects and getting through finals, and the next you’re realizing this chapter of your life is almost complete.
A grad session can be that moment where it really starts to sink in. You should be proud, you’ve made it! And it’s totally normal to feel proud, excited, and maybe a little nervous about what’s next.
That’s why I care about making your grad session feel easy, personal, and meaningful. After all this is more than just getting nice photos.
It’s about celebrating this big achievement and everything that got you to this moment.
This was the first time I ever got my pictures taken professionally and I am so glad Sara was my photographer. From start to finish, Sara was incredibly professional. She arrived on time, fully prepared, and had a clear vision for capturing the best moments. Her patience was remarkable, especially when working with my family. What truly set Sara apart was her thoughtfulness. She paid attention to every detail, making sure each shot was perfect. Her fun and friendly personality made the shoot enjoyable. And the results? Absolutely amazing! The photos turned out better than I could have imagined. Sara’s talent and creativity are evident in every shot, capturing not just images but beautiful memories that we will cherish forever. As a sweet gesture, Sara also gave me a little gift, which was a wonderful surprise upon receiving my printed picture! I highly recommend Sara to anyone looking for a professional photographer. Thank you, Sara, for making my graduation and family photoshoot such a memorable experience!
-Hilda, UCM Class of 2024
Class of 2025
Grad Photo Packages
Solo
$275 (+sales tax)
This package is for student-only photos and includes:
Photography coverage of up t0 1 hour for 1 student
Photos with 1 outfit + cap/gown
Online gallery with download access for up to 20 full-resolution digital images
One (1) physical print, sized 8x10”, of image of your choice from the gallery
Access to online shop for additional digital images, prints or other physical products
Solo + Family
$325 (+sales tax)
Includes:
Photography coverage of up t0 1.5 hours for 1 student and family of up to 6 members
Includes photos with 2 outfits + cap/gown
Online gallery with download access for 30 full-resolution digital images
One (1) physical print, sized 8x10”, of image of your choice from the gallery
Access to online shop for additional digital images, prints or other physical products
Couples/Dynamic Duo
$500 (+sales tax)
Includes:
Photography coverage of up t0 2 hours for couples or 2 students
Includes photos for 1 outfit + cap/gown
Online gallery with download access for 50 full-resolution digital images
One (1) physical print, sized 8x10”, of image of your choice from the gallery, for each student
Access to online shop for additional digital images, prints or other physical products
Groups of 3 or 4 students
$700 (+sales tax)
Includes:
Photography coverage of up t0 3 hours for up to 4 students
Includes photos for 2 outfits + cap/gown
Online gallery with download access for 100 full-resolution digital images
One (1) physical print, sized 8x10”, of image of your choice from the gallery, for each student
Access to online shop for additional digital images, prints or other physical products
Mini Studio Grad Session
This is only available as an add-on to a regular package
$75 per student
Includes:
Photography coverage of up to 30 minutes for portraits and headshots at local studio
Includes photos for cap/gown only
Online gallery with download access for 10 full-resolution digital images
Motivated, Educated, Graduated
It’s your turn to celebrate and document this moment!
Submit your inquiry below and let’s get your session booked for this Spring or Summer!
I had such an amazing time taking grad photos with Sara. She is very kind and fun to work with. She guided me through every step of the process to prepare for the session and what to do on the day to get the best photos. Her professionalism and artistic abilities make her one of the best! I 100% recommend Sara to anyone wanting high-quality grad photos!
-Samuel, UCM Class of 2023
I GOT YOU.
Got questions before booking your grad session?
How far in advance should I book my grad session?
The best time to book your grad session is at least two weeks ahead, so we both have time to plan and prep. But honestly, the sooner, the better! That way, you’ll have first pick of dates and less to worry about later.
I’ve never done a photoshoot before, do you help with posing?
I’ve got you! I’ll guide you through a mix of natural movement and simple poses, so your photos feel relaxed and your gallery is full of variety. With the styling guide, I also send you a posing guide with easy posing tips to help you feel prepared in advance.
What happens if it’s raining on session day?
We’ll check the weather forecast before locking in your session to help avoid any rainy surprises. But if the forecast takes a turn, we’ll simply reschedule to a new date that works best for both of us!
Can I bring any props for the photos?
Props are always welcome! Things like books, banners, balloons, or even a small cake or cupcakes can add a fun touch to your session. Just a heads-up to please avoid anything that might need extra cleanup, like confetti or glitter.
PS. I’ll have a little surprise for you!
I don’t know what to wear! Any suggestions?
You can totally scroll through Pinterest for ideas, but once we start working together, I’ll also send you a styling guide filled with tips and outfit inspo to help you feel confident and camera-ready.
Can my friend/family come too?
Bring your friend, your sibling, your hype crew; whoever makes you feel your best. They can help carry your things and cheer you on! If they’d like to be included in the shoot, I offer tailored packages that include friends or family too.
For more questions, check the grad session packages, submit an inquiry or email me at sara@sarasotophotography.com
BOOK YOUR GRAD SESSION TODAY
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