Here we go, grads!
Tips and Tricks for grad sessions
RULE NUMERO UNO
The outfits for your grad session should reflect …YOU!
The most successful graduation sessions I have photographed are the ones that have outfits that you are the most comfortable in. My biggest tip is to always choose outfits that:
You feel great in. Try different outfits on and send some pics to close friends for their opinions on what’s working and what’s not. This can narrow down the list a lot quicker for you! If you need a third opinion on color schemes that work well for certain locations around campus, I’m more than happy to help!
Show diversity and dimension! Serve the camera all of the different looks with a range in your wardrobe. Suggestions for this could be an outfit that shows school spirit, an outfit that gives you Linked-In headshot vibes, and an outfit that is more fun and casual.
Show YOUR personality. Choose that favorite t-shirt/dress/suit that you LOVE, the colors that you always gravitate towards, and the style that matches who you are.
Smaller notes:
It's best to use any formal wear first and then switch into something a little more casual!
10/10 recommend bringing some comfy sandals or slippers to change into for those in-between walks from locations.
What better way to end your session than with some celebratory bubbly? Save the champagne for last!
THAT GOOD INSPO ✨
School Spirit Outfits
Fancy Grads
Cool and Casual
RULE NUMERO DOS
Details Details Details
That Bling Bling
Accessories are welcome and ALWAYS give an extra dimension to your photos. Bring your class ring that you dropped that money on, or dope pair of shades you might have that you think could go well with your outfit choices. Even if you don't think you'll use them, it's always good to have them with ya just in case!
Props
Grad Stoles/Cords, Cap and Gown, School Flags, Handmade Signs - Bring 'em ALL!
If you’d like, feel free to send me any ideas you’d like to incorporate into your shoot. Some peeps have sent me screenshots of some grad photo inspiration. While I do come with poses and ideas for each session, I am definitely open to suggestions!
NOTE:
My only reservation with props would be confetti.
I will not allow any confetti shots during sessions. (Gotta help the earth!)
BUT a popular alternative has been champagne/sparkling cider. I highly recommend:
Having them chilled before your session.
Bringing an extra bottle (or two!). just in case!
Want a photo op with your furry companion?
Bring your fur baby! After all, they were a part of your time in college.
Here are some tips and tricks when bringing your pet along:
Have your friend be on pet patrol! You don’t want your fur baby to be roaming around while you take photos. Having a friend or family member there ensures that your pet will be in good hands!
Bring their favorite treat or toy! Distractions always work and help me get the dogs looking at the camera when it’s time for their closeup.
Last one (and probably the most important): Bring them at the time and location that you’d like to take photos. Once you’re done, ask your friend to take back your pet to your place so that they can cool down and you can finish the rest of your session. (The pavement during spring and summer can get real hot, and the last thing you want is some burnt paws.)
Bring ya hype crew
Graduates in the past have brought their best friend, their boo, or a family member to tag along and I’m all for it! (Friends, in particular, make the best hype crew) If you’d like to bring someone along to take 1-2 photos with, just give me a heads up through text!
RULE NUMERO FOUR
Choose spots that mean the most to you
Grads have chosen anywhere and everywhere on campus and nearby. What helps to narrow down the list is thinking about the places that mean the most to you, that building you've spent 100349340 hours practically living in besides your apartment, your favorite spot in the city, or a place that you just think would look real nice to be at!
RULE NUMERO CINCO
Your photographer has your back
I’ve been professionally photographing grads for almost 6 years now (say whaaa!?). Throughout the years, I’ve learned that being in front of the camera can be veryyy intimidating for most people. This is why it’s so important for me to create a comfortable environment for you. This also means that during your session, I will help guide you through posing, be your hype man, make corny jokes, and do everything in my power to give you the best photography experience possible. In short, I’ve got your back, fam!
FAQ
“What if the weather is no bueno?”
Texas weather really be all over the place sometimes. So if the weather is just not really working for us that day, we’ll reschedule for sometime later that next week or upcoming week (depending on the day your session falls on.) If no close dates work, we will see what works best with our schedules and go from there!
“What time does my session start?”
Morning Sessions
All morning sessions will begin at 7:30 AM
Afternoon SessionS
All PM sessions will begin at 5 PM!
Where do we meet first?
I’ll reach out through text and confirm our route for the day :)
Where do I park?
Most universities require you to either have a permit if you’d like to park on campus. If you do have a permit, check to see which zones are available beforehand! If not, I always park at the nearest pay-to-park garage or nearest street parking that is free!
Tip: Try to park closest to the last location of our route. This way you can save some time and don’t have to walk very far from where we started!
Where do I change?
I will bring a pop-up changing room so that you can make those quick outfit switches in between locations! This is just in case your session location is nowhere near a bathroom or the buildings are locked.
Got some more questions? I’ve got answers.
Feel free to reach out to me through email or text if you have any other questions regarding your session. I am here to help you in any way that I can!
We’re done with your session!
Now what?
After your session, I get straight to work!
You will be delivered both a copy of your edited photos on a digital gallery both in high resolution and web size. They should be ready 2 weeks after your session!