Getting Ready for Your Graduation Photos | Senior & Grad Photo Tips!
Graduation is one of those rare milestones that feels like both an ending and a beginning. Whether you’re finishing high school or wrapping up your college years, your graduation session is a chance to capture this moment in a way that feels uniquely you. Below are a few tips to help you prepare and make the most of your graduation photos!
1. Posing with Confidence
Most people aren’t used to being in front of the camera, and that’s completely okay! During your session, I’ll guide you through natural, flattering poses that bring out your personality. We’ll spend the first five to ten minutes of our session chatting about posing, things you like, things you don’t like, and any ideas you have that you want to incorporate. Some people have go-to poses, others have no idea where to start. No matter what side you are on, I’ll help ensure that you are comfortable in front of the camera. The goal isn’t to look stiff or staged, but to capture your authentic energy, whether that’s joy, pride, or quiet reflection. A few tips:
Practice a few poses in the mirror beforehand so you know what feels comfortable.
Bring your hands into play: hold your cap, cross your arms, or toss your gown over your shoulder.
Move! Walking, laughing, or looking off into the distance adds life and movement to your photos.
2. Incorporate You Into the Shoot
Your photos should tell your story. Think about what defines this chapter of your life and how you can weave that in. Maybe it’s:
Your favorite instrument, sketchbook, or camera.
A jersey or piece of team gear.
A letterman jacket, college sweatshirt, or even your pet!
Or, something like colorful confetti to represent your love of all things colorful!
These personal touches make your photos feel more like a reflection of who you are, not just what you’ve accomplished.
3. The Iconic Champagne Moment (for College Grads)
For college seniors, the champagne spray has become a classic way to celebrate. If that’s your vibe, I can help you time the shot perfectly so you get those joyful, sparkling photos without soaking your outfit (unless that’s part of the fun!).
I’ve helped over 50 graduating college seniors with their champagne sprays, so I know how to guide you for the perfect photos!
If champagne isn’t your thing, we can get creative. Confetti, a smoke stick in your school colors, or even a soda pop bottle for a fun twist. The key is celebrating your moment your way.
4. Don’t Forget the Professional Portrait
One of my favorite parts of every senior session is taking a few photos without the cap and gown. Think of these as your “next step” portraits, perfect for LinkedIn, job applications, or networking events. They’re polished, approachable, and timeless! They are something you’ll be glad to have as you step into your next chapter.
5. Bring Your Friends Along
Graduation is about celebrating together: the late-night study sessions, the coffee runs, the inside jokes, and the people who made the journey meaningful. Bringing your friends to your session can turn it into a fun, relaxed experience instead of something that feels posed or pressured.
You can:
Book a group session so everyone gets both individual and shared photos. This is perfect for roommates, teammates, or best friends.
Capture candid moments: laughing, linking arms, or popping champagne together. These are often the shots that feel the most genuine.
Hype each other up! Having your friends there brings out real smiles and helps ease any nerves.
Even if you’re scheduling solo portraits, consider inviting a friend or two to join for part of the session. It turns the shoot into a memory in itself: one last shared moment before you all head off to new adventures.
Your graduation photos are more than just pictures, they’re a celebration of how far you’ve come and everything that’s ahead. Whether you’re popping champagne with friends, tossing your cap in the air, or simply soaking in the moment, this session is about you. My goal is to make you feel comfortable, confident, and seen. I aim to capture both the milestone and the person behind it.
So bring your smile, your story, and maybe even your best friend, and let’s create images that remind you of this season of growth, excitement, and endless possibility!
Let’s Connect!
Xo, Katie
