College Grad Prep Guide

O N G R A T U L A T I O N S

Time to celebrate!

I am so happy for you and this monumental moment in your life! We are going to create some beautiful, fun memories together. I've created this guide to help you be as stress-free and prepared as possible. Most of these are just suggestions! Feel free to reach out if you have more questions that aren't covered in here.

The most important thing you can bring with you on your photo session day is a smile and confidence! Be prepared to have fun!

W H A T T O W E A R

for her

WARDROBE TIPS

Keep it simple! You're the focus of the photos. The main subject should be you not your clothes

Opt for lighter hues and tones to create a contrast with your stole and robe Graduation stoles and robes are typically darker and more intense with color, making a lighter foundation beneficial.

Avoid plaid, polka dots, stripes and any imagery on your clothing

Please iron/steam and hang your clothes the day before to prevent wrinkles

Do not wait until the day of your session to remove the stole from the package It will have fold lines

W H A T T O W E A R

casual classic Sophisticated Dress

for her

CASUAL CLASSIC PROFESSIONAL LOOK:

A tailored blazer or structured jacket in a neutral color like black, navy, or gray.

A crisp white or pastel-colored blouse

Tailored trousers or a knee-length pencil skirt in a complementary color.

Closed-toe heels or flats in a coordinating color. Minimal jewelry such as stud earrings and a delicate necklace

DRESSY

A knee-length or midi-length dress in a flattering silhouette, such as a fit-and-flare or sheath style

Choose a dress in a solid color or a subtle print like floral or polka dots.

Pair the dress with a statement necklace or earrings for added elegance

Opt for nude or neutral-tone heels to elongate the legs.

Consider adding a fitted cardigan or cropped blazer for a polished layering option

W H A T T O W E A R C Ch c cap + gown

for her

CASUAL CHIC

High-waisted skinny jeans or trousers in a dark wash. A flowy blouse or a fitted top in a vibrant color or fun pattern

Layer with a lightweight cardigan or denim jacket for a relaxed vibe.

Complete the look with ankle boots, flats, or stylish sneakers

Accessorize with dainty jewelry pieces like hoop earrings or a stack of bracelets.

CAP + GOWN

The classic cap and gown We can get a lot of fun shots if you ' re able to bring your cap and gown along for the session!

Wearing it different ways, tossing your cap, etc

bring W H A T T O checklist

Comfortable change of shoes or flip-flops to wear as we walk

from one location to another

Cap and Gown

Bobby pins

Safety pins

Ladies-Touch up makeup

Hairspray

Coat or extra layer in case it ' s cold

Accessories - hat, shoes, etc

Bottle of water if it ' s a hot day

C O N S I D E R

A hat

Personalized Sign or Banner: Creating a custom sign or banner with the graduate's name, graduation year, or a congratulatory message adds a personal touch and can be used as a prop in the photoshoot.

Books or Academic Props: Including books related to the graduate's field of study

Glasses: If you wear glasses, they will glare If possible, please remove the lenses. If anything, you can take them off.

Confetti

W H A T T O W E A R

f o r h i m

CLASSIC PROFESSIONAL

A well-fitted suit in a timeless color like navy, charcoal, or black

A crisp white dress shirt

A coordinating tie in a solid color or subtle pattern.

Dress shoes in black or brown, polished and in good condition

CASUAL

Tailored chinos or dress pants in a neutral color like khaki, gray, or navy.

A button-down shirt in a complementary color or subtle pattern

Layer with a V-neck sweater or a casual blazer for a polished touch.

asked questions F R E Q U E N T L Y

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?

As a photographer who mainly shoots sessions outdoors, I am always on top of the weather! Unfortunately I do not control the weather, and of course we want the ideal weather for your photos, so there are times that sessions have to be rescheduled. If rain or thunderstorms are forecasted for your session time, it will be rescheduled (usually to the next day or the following weekend, same time). I will make the call the night before and you will receive an email about the date it will be postponed to If that date doesn’t work, you can email me back and we’ll work out another time!

CAN I INCLUDE PETS OR FAMILY?

This is totally up to you. Some people like to include their dog(s) in their graduation photos. Being an adoring pup mom myself, I totally understand! And I want you to include them if that’s something that’s important to you. My fav was when my client brought a mini graduation cap for her dog to wear It’s one of my fav pics of all time!

And family. This is a big moment for them too! If you would like to include family in your graduation photos I recommend having them join us at the end of the session. That way you have plenty of one on one time with me and don’t have the pressure of anyone watching you

asked questions F R E Q U E N T L Y

HOW LONG DOES A TYPICAL COLLEGE GRADUATION PHOTO SESSION LAST?

The duration of a college graduation photo session can vary depending on various factors such as the number of locations, outfit changes, and specific requests. On average, a session lasts anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours. It's essential to discuss your preferences with me beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your needs within the agreed-upon timeframe.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING OR PREPARE FOR MY COLLEGE GRADUATION PHOTO SESSION?

To make the most of your college graduation photo session, consider bringing the following items:

Your cap and gown, as well as any other academic regalia or memorabilia you wish to include.

Any props or accessories that represent your interests, achievements, or alma mater.

Comfortable shoes for walking between locations, especially if you plan to shoot outdoors.

Any specific poses or ideas you'd like to try, as well as open communication with your photographer to discuss your vision and preferences.

thoughts F I N A L

SPEAK UP!

If there's a pose or angle you don't like, please speak up! I will not hurt my feelings. I am here to help make you look and feel your best! If there's anything you'd like me to know before our session, you will have an opportunity to share in your personalized questionnaire that will be emailed to you

MINIMIZING JEWELRY

Be careful not to overdo yourself with jewelry Too much can quickly take the attention off of you and onto all the jewelry instead. It can also quickly date your photos if it ' s "trendy" jewerly

DO YOUR NAILS

Do your nails! They will most likely be seen in the photos I recommend sticking to a simple and clean look, or choose something that will make you happy when you look back on your photos

See you soon!

I am truly looking forward to working with you! If you have any questions

before your session, feel free to reach out. No question is too silly. Even if you need an outfit opinion, I'm here for you!

Can't wait to celebrate and share this joyous occasion with you!

Looking Forward To It!

EMAIL:

KELLYN@KELLYNWILSONPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

PHONE: 803-4113-3634