Get the Most Out of Your Graduation Photos: Tips, Do’s & Don’ts

Your graduation is a huge milestone, and your photo session should feel just as exciting—not stressful. Whether you're prepping your cap and gown or figuring out what to wear, this guide will help you show up feeling confident and camera-ready. I’ve put together some quick do’s, don’ts, and tips based on real sessions (and a few lessons learned along the way) to make sure your grad photos turn out amazing.

☀️ Best Time of Day to Shoot

Lighting is everything. The early morning and late evening (aka “golden hour”) are the best times for your session. These times offer soft, flattering light and fewer people walking around. Midday sun can cause blown out highlights, harsh shadows and squinty eyes, so we’ll avoid that if possible.

Bonus tip: Overcast skies? Don’t panic—clouds can actually create beautiful, even lighting.

👕 Steamed & Ready

Your gown, stole, and outfit deserve to shine just as much as you do. Please steam or iron your clothing before your session, especially your gown and stole—they show wrinkles fast in photos. Sure, I can fix a lot in editing, but if you want your gallery delivered sooner, helping me out with little things like this really speeds up the process.

👠 Wear the Comfy Shoes (Trust Me)

If you’re wearing heels or dress shoes you don’t normally walk in, pack a comfy pair of sneakers or slides. We’ll likely cover some ground walking between photo spots, and brick walkways, cobblestone, and uneven grass aren’t heel-friendly. You can always change into your nicer shoes right before each set of shots.

🎓 Cap, Gown & Props

• Bring bobby pins or hair ties to help secure your cap—especially on windy days.
• Take off the tag and any cardboard from the cap before your session.
• Lint rollers are your best friend (especially with black gowns).
• Want to bring props? I’m all for it! If you have something meaningful to your degree—like a hard hat, stethoscope, books, or tools—we can absolutely work it in.
• Thinking about champagne or confetti? Let me know in advance! I can help plan the timing and location so we keep the route smooth (and avoid making a mess too early 😉).

👯 Bringing Guests

Including family or friends in a few shots? Totally welcome! Just keep in mind that having people watch or wait can sometimes add pressure, especially if you’re not fully comfortable in front of the camera. If you're nervous or easily distracted, I recommend flying solo for most of the session—then inviting them in at the end for a few celebratory photos.

📸 Quick Do’s & Don’ts

DO:

✅ Wear something you feel confident in underneath your gown

✅ Bring a lint roller (especially for dark gowns)

✅ Coordinate props or accessories that show off your personality or degree

✅ Relax and have fun! I’ll guide you through posing

DON’T:

❌ Wait until the last minute to prep your outfit

❌ Forget comfy shoes for walking between locations

❌ Stress about posing—I'm here to help every step of the way

❌ Invite a full cheer squad to watch unless you’re 100% comfortable with it

💬 Questions?

Not sure what to wear? Want help choosing props? Curious about the best locations on campus? Reach out! I’m here to help you prep so your session feels easy, fun, and totally you.