Behind The Scenes
What to expect and how to prepare yourself for a FUN photoshoot! Here are some tips to make the most of your experience.
Choose Your Outfit Ahead of Time
Plan your outfits a few days before your session. Try everything on to make sure it fits, looks good, and feels comfortable. Avoid clothing with large logos or distracting patterns.Simple, clean looks photograph beautifully.
If you still have doubts about what to wear, you can read my blog post “What to Wear for Your Graduation Photos.”
Steam or Iron Your Gown
Graduation gowns wrinkle easily. Make sure to steam or iron it beforehand so it looks crisp and polished in photos.
Please, please, please treat your clothing and accessories with care and love. Bring your gown on a hanger to avoid wrinkles, make sure your shoes are clean, and that all your other accessories look flawless.
The small details make a big difference.
Make a list and check it twice
Don’t forget your cap, tassel, stole, honor cords, and any additional items that represent your achievements. Ive also created a list of things that I always find handy or in need when the wind becomes super strong. Read more about all the secret tools nobody talks about in my Blog Story: Life Savers.
Photoshoot Emergency Touch-Up Kit list
Bobby pins
Clear hair elastics
Mini brush or comb
Lint roller (especially helpful for black gowns)
Makeup blotting papers
Facial wipes
Fashion tape (double-sided clothing tape)
Safety pins
Mini sewing kit
Compact mirror
Travel-size hair spray
You can also check out my Amazon list specific with all of this goodies, in case you are missing any! I recommend give it a look, there might be something you didn’t think of and actually makes a lot of sense to have always with you (even after the shoot).
Get Rest and Stay Hydrated
The best part about having a photo session scheduled is that the night before you have the perfect excuse to stay home, put on a face mask, watch your favorite show or movie, and plan a little self–mani and pedi or book an appointment at your go-to salon.
A good night’s sleep and staying hydrated will help your skin look fresh and natural.
Remember that our skin doesn’t lie! Try not to eat or drink very salty or sugary foods or beverages so you can wake up with fresh, glowing skin, I promise it makes all the difference!
Arrive a Few Minutes Early
Getting to the location early helps you relax, settle in, and get comfortable before the session starts.
Personally, I like to arrive early so I can settle in with plenty of time and calm. I check that the spots I had in mind are available and see if there’s a place I hadn’t considered where the light is hitting beautifully.
I recommend you doing the same if possible, so we can have a few minutes to chat, break the ice, and take a few test shots to help you feel more comfortable.
Guest are welcome.
If someone can join you, that’s great. Feel free to bring your partner, best friend, or a family member.Extra support is always welcome.
Please don’t confuse this with photo opportunity, Im happy to take photos of you with your love ones but if your guest is another graduate, this one has to pay for his photos.
Read more about this in the FAQ for graduation photography.
