Look amazing.
Feel confident.
Everything you need to know before your grad photo session, from what to wear to what to bring. No stress, just vibes.
What to Wear
Your outfit sets the tone for the entire shoot. Here's how to pick pieces that look incredible on camera and still feel like you.
Go Classic, Not Trendy
You'll look at these photos for decades. Timeless silhouettes and solid colours age way better than whatever's trending on TikTok right now.
Stick to Neutral Tones
Whites, creams, tans, soft blues, and sage greens photograph beautifully. They complement every skin tone and won't clash with your gown or the campus backdrop.
Layers Are Your Friend
A blazer over a simple top, a cardigan draped on your shoulders. Layers add dimension to photos and give you more variety between shots.
Comfort Over Everything
We'll be walking around campus. Bring your cute shoes for posed shots but wear comfy ones for getting between spots. Flats or clean sneakers work great.
Colours That Photograph Best
These tones work beautifully with the UofG campus backdrop in every season.
✓ Do Wear
- Solid colours and neutral tones
- Fitted clothing that flatters your shape
- Light colours under the gown (they pop!)
- Simple jewellery and accessories
- Outfits you feel confident and comfortable in
✗ Avoid
- Busy patterns, large logos, or graphics
- Neon or overly bright colours
- Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothes
- Brand-heavy streetwear
- Anything you'd need to constantly adjust
Tips Just for the Girls
A few extra details to make sure you're feeling your absolute best on shoot day.
Test Your Makeup First
Do a trial run a few days before. Subtle looks read even more subtle on camera, so go slightly bolder than your everyday makeup. You won't regret it.
Think About Undergarments
Seamless, nude-toned bras minimize lines under light or fitted clothing. Strapless options are great if you're wearing anything off-shoulder.
Heels? Bring Backup
If you want heels in your photos, bring them in a bag and swap for the posed shots. We walk between campus spots so comfy shoes are a must in between.
Fresh Nails (Optional but Nice)
Your hands show up more than you think, especially holding your diploma or adjusting your cap. A clean, neutral manicure goes a long way.
Cap & Gown Info
I don't provide cap and gown. Here's where to get yours and how to make it look great.
- Rent your cap and gown from the UofG Campus Bookstore or online at gaspard.ca
- Iron or steam your gown and sash the night before. Wrinkles show up big time in photos
- Make sure your hood/sash colours match your program. Double check before you leave
- Secure your cap with bobby pins. Wind on campus is real and we don't want to chase it
- If you have cords, stoles, or pins from clubs and honours, bring them along
What to Bring
A quick day-of packing list so you don't forget anything.
- Your cap, gown, hood and sash (ironed and on a hanger)
- 1-2 outfit changes for variety between looks
- Comfy walking shoes and your photo shoes if different
- Touch-up kit: lip colour, blotting sheets, hair ties, bobby pins
- Props that mean something to you: textbooks, stethoscope, jersey, pet, partner, your favourite coffee
- Water bottle and a snack. Seriously. You'll need the energy
- A good playlist and good vibes. We'll handle the rest
Group Sessions?
Coordinate outfit colours with your friends ahead of time. You don't need to match exactly, just stick to a similar colour palette (all neutrals, all earth tones, etc.) so the group shots feel cohesive.
Day-of Game Plan
Here's roughly how your session day should look. The less rushed you are, the better your photos will turn out.
The Night Before
Lay out your outfits, iron your gown, charge your phone, and get a good night's sleep. Hydrate. Your skin will thank you.
Morning Of
Take your time getting ready. Do your hair and makeup without rushing. Eat something. Leave earlier than you think you need to.
Arrive on Campus
Meet at our agreed spot. We'll start with your gown-on portraits, then move through campus hitting all the best locations.
During the Session
Relax and have fun. I'll guide you through every pose. You don't need to know how to model. Just show up and be yourself.
After the Session
Your edited photos will be delivered within 5 business days. You'll get a private online gallery to view, download, and share.