Graduates of the Class of 2022 have a range of scenic photo locations across campus, including the skyward point of CLA Tower, which will be available for photo opportunities for a few more weeks.
To capture the CLA point, graduates should take their photos by May 8. Starting May 9, the demolition contractor will erect scaffolding and wrap the CLA Tower in material to trap dust and debris in preparation for the CLA Tower tear-down later in May. The scaffolding and building wrap will completely cover the building’s iconic façade.
From May 14 to 22, a portion of the construction fencing will be pulled back to allow graduates, alumni and the campus community to take non-commercial photos in The Aratani Japanese Garden adjacent to the CLA Tower. The Kellogg Rose Garden is also open for photo opportunities.
For some of the best views of the CLA Building, University Photographer Tom Zasadzinski recommends standing in the Engineering Meadow with the CLA Tower in the background. Or, try posing near the flagpole in front of University Plaza (old stables).
“My favorite place to take photos in the Japanese Garden is the lower bridge. You can have varying backgrounds, and everyone looks good on that bridge,” Zasadzinski said.
To capture the CLA point, graduates should take their photos before May 9. Starting May 9, the demolition contractor will begin to erect scaffolding and wrap the CLA Tower in material to trap dust and debris in preparation for the CLA Tower tear-down later in May. The scaffolding and building wrap will eventually completely cover the building’s iconic façade.
Starting May 23, the demolition of the CLA Tower begins, and the Japanese Garden will be covered in protective screening and fenced off.
Tips to Capture the Perfect Graduation Photo:
- For the best views of the CLA Tower, stand in the Engineering Meadow with the CLA in the background. You can also pose near the flagpole in front of University Plaza (old stables). May 8 is the last day to capture photos of the building before it is covered.
- The Aratani Japanese Garden, especially the lower bridge, is a prime photo spot just about any time of the day. The garden will be open from May 14 to 22.
- For the Rose Garden, the best times for photography are early mornings or late afternoons. Avoid midday because the bright sunlight is a challenge.
- The University Plaza (old stables) is one of the oldest buildings on campus. The arches, courtyard and fountain provide a classic-Cal Poly Pomona photo backdrop.
- The breezeway in the Student Services Building is a great staging point for photos, especially if you can capture the University Plaza (old stables) in the background.
- For a great vista of campus and surrounding areas, hike up Mansion Lane. The walk to the turnout isn’t too difficult, and you’ll get a beautiful overview of campus.
Additional Guidance for Photos:
- Keep our campus clean! Please don’t use confetti or glass bottles (e.g. breaking Champagne bottles) in your photo shoots, especially near the CLA Building and Aratani Japanese Garden. Those materials are bad for the birds, plants and koi fish, and they’re difficult to clean up.
- Be careful around construction sites.
- Entering the CLA Tower or demolition site is strictly prohibited. Security patrols have been increased to ensure safety throughout the night.
