lets talk about graduation!!
As graduation approaches, it's VERY normal to feel overwhelmed! With so many options and things to consider, you're not wrong to feel a little nervous or lost. The one thing you don’t need to worry about is your graduation photos—I’ve got you covered!
I am here to answer all your questions (plus the ones you didn’t even know you had). I’ll share all the tips, tricks, and recommendations for what to do, what not to do, and what to expect during our session together!
Whether you've already got your outfit planned or you're just starting to brainstorm ideas, my goal is that you walk away from this guide feeling a little bit more confident and ready to celebrate at your grad session! You’ve worked hard, put in sooo many hours, and had many sleepless nights, now it's time to celebrate YOU and ALL of your accomplishments!
What to wear
Choosing what you will wear for your photos is a huge decision that can make or break your session! I know that sounds dramatic... but, if you wear something that isn’t comfortable or something that you don’t feel confident in...it can ruin the experience for you!
This is a celebration!! So wear something that makes you FEEL confident, comfortable, and like yourself!!
I always say “If you feel uncomfortable, you’ll look uncomfortable" — and that means you probably won’t love your photos... and we definitely don’t want that! You should be able to move around, laugh, and not be thinking about your outfit the whole time.
the gals
Outfits
I love dresses and jumpsuits because they’re super timeless and photograph really well (and they pair perfectly with your cap, gown, cords, all the things!!), but you definitely don’t have to wear one. Wear whatever feels the most like YOU!
colors
I’m a little biased and always recommend to stick with white, black or something neutral—these colors look the cleanest in photos and allow your graduation accessories to POP! But if you’re feeling colorful, just make sure it complements your grad accessories instead of clashing with them!
jewelry + accessories
Keep it simple! We want your grad accessories to stand out, and too many extras can feel cluttered. Stick with minimal jewelry—think dainty necklaces, rings, and bracelets! If you want a bold statement piece, go for statement earrings rather than layering multiple access
the fellas
Outfits
The fellas gotta look good too! My biggest advice is to keep it clean, simple, and something you feel comfortable in—either formal or business casual, whichever is most comfortable for you! You could wear slacks and a button-up, or go more formal with a suit!! I typically recommend staying away from super casual outfits like graphic tees or jeans — this is a big moment, so let’s dress it up just a little!!
colors
Stick with neutral tones like black, white, navy, or beige — those always photograph really well. If you want to add a pop of color, a tie in your school colors is a great way to do it (just make sure it matches your grad gear so everything looks cohesive!).
jewelry + accessories
Accessories can be a great way to elevate your outfit — just keep it simple!! Think watches, simple chains, rings, or a clean belt to pull everything together. These little details can make your outfit feel more put together without being too much.
props
are props right for you??
Props can be SUCH a fun way to make your grad photos feel more personal — but they’re definitely not required!!
My biggest advice: only bring a prop if it actually means something to you. The best ones feel intentional and reflect your personality, your major, or this season of life. If it doesn’t make sense or feels cringey, skip it! But if it’s part of your everyday life or something you're proud of, bring it and let’s show it of
Also — only about 1 in 5 grads bring props, so don’t feel like you have to!!
prop ideas
If you’re bringing props, please keep your session length in mind! For example, if you’ve booked a mini 30-minute session, please don’t bring more than one prop—we won’t have time for it!
for college grads
Most Popular: Champagne/Beer, Confetti, Personalized Sign, College merch (crewneck, jersey, etc.), Sorority/fraternity items
By Major/Future Plans: Lab Coat/Stethoscope, Textbooks, Art Supplies, Engineering Helmet
for high school grads
Most Popular: College merch/flags (where you’re going!), Varsity jacket, Sports gear (ball, jersey, etc.), Confetti, Balloons, Personalized Sign
If you’re unsure about bringing something — send it my way and I’ll help you decide!!
session day
The big day is here! To make the most of your session and feel your absolute best in front of the camera, here are a few tips to help you prepare and feel your best during your session:
tips + advice
get plenty of rest
You’ve probably heard this a million times, but seriously — a good night’s sleep makes all the difference. You’ll feel more energized, your skin will look fresh, and your mood will be lifted. Trust me, well-rested YOU = confident YOU in front of the camera.
stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up to your session. It helps your skin glow, keeps you feeling good, and prevents that dry-lips situation (especially important if you’re wearing lipstick or gloss!).
prep your outfits & props
Try on everything (including accessories) before your session to make sure it fits and looks the way you want it to!! Pack any extra outfits in a way that prevents wrinkles — hang them up if possible!! I will send you a session check list a few days before your session so you don't forget anything! :)
arrive early
Give yourself extra time to get to the location so you’re not feeling rushed or flustered! Arriving early also give you time to do any last minute touch ups in the car!
trust the process
You don’t have to know how to pose — that’s my job! I will give you fun poses & prompts. I will even tell you where your hands and feet should go. I promise I will guide you every step of the way, all you have to do is show up as your best self!!
session day
checklist
To help you feel ready to go, here’s a quick checklist of what to pack and prep before our session together! Keeping things organized ahead of time means you’ll show up feeling confident and comfortable—and that’s exactly the type of energy we want!! I’ll also send you a reminder the week of your session with this list as well!
✔ Outfits: If you’ve got multiple outfits, make sure they’re steamed or ironed, hung up, and ready to go! And don’t forget shoes for each outfit, too!
✔ Undergarments: Bring the right ones for each outfit (strapless bras, socks, etc.)
✔ Grad Accessories: Make sure you have your Cap, Gown, Tassles, Stoll, Yolk, Extracurricular Stoles, Honor Cords, Props, ect...
✔ Touch-Up Stuff: Hairbrush, bobby pins, lip balm, touch up makeup, blotting papers...
✔ Water: Stay hydrated!!
✔ Props: Anything that screams YOU? Bring it!
i am so excited & i hope you are too!
My job isn’t just to take pretty photos — it’s to make sure you feel seen, celebrated, and completely yourself throughout the experience.
So here’s your only real job: show up as YOU. I’ll take care of the rest — the posing, the direction, the angles, the vibe — allll of it. If you ever feel unsure or nervous, it's okay!! That’s normal! Just know I got you!!!
I hope you feel more prepared for our session together after reading this!! PLEASEEEE reach out if you have any questions AT ALL! That’s what I’m here for! :))