Graduation Shoots: Top Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Graduation Photoshoots: How to Look Smart, Stay Sane & Avoid Cap Catastrophes!

Congratulations! You’ve finally reached the finish line of your academic journey, and now it’s time to celebrate with a stunning graduation photoshoot. Whether you’re a proud student or a beaming parent, our professional photographers at our North London studio are here to capture your big moment in all its glory. To make sure your photos are picture-perfect (and don’t end up as future blackmail material), here’s everything you need to know before stepping in front of our cameras.

The Cap Conundrum: Taming the Mortarboard

Let’s talk about the real MVP of graduation day—the mortarboard. This charming yet mischievous hat has a habit of sliding off, sitting wonky, or making your head look twice its usual size. Here’s how to keep it under control:

• Bobby pins are your best friends. Secure the cap to your hair like it’s the crown you deserve.
• Find your forehead’s sweet spot. The cap should sit level, not perched precariously like a seagull ready to take flight.
• Practice your toss. If you plan to throw it in the air, aim for a dignified launch, not a wild frisbee attack.

Wardrobe Wisdom: Looking Sharp & Feeling Comfortable

Nothing ruins a great photo faster than an outfit mishap. Here’s what to consider:

• Dress smart, but stay comfy. You want to look sharp, but also be able to breathe. Avoid tight collars unless you enjoy the “I-can’t-wait-to-get-this-off” look.
• Think about your neckline. The graduation gown covers most of your outfit, so a neat collar or V-neck works best.
• Shoes matter. Yes, the focus is on your upper half, but if you’re doing full-length shots, leave the fluffy slippers at home (unless that’s your vibe, in which case, own it!).
• Iron your outfit. Wrinkles are charming on dogs, not graduation attire.

Makeup & Grooming: Natural vs. Full Glam

You want to look like yourself—just a slightly more polished version.

• For makeup lovers: Stick to timeless looks rather than trendy experiments. You don’t want to look back in 10 years and wonder why you thought blue eyeliner was a great idea.
• For bearded grads: A well-groomed beard is a glorious thing. Just give it a tidy-up so it looks intentional, not like you’ve been lost in the library for six months.
• Hair prep: If you’re planning a haircut, do it at least a week in advance so it looks natural and not like an emergency fix.

Pose Like a Pro: No Awkward Hands Allowed

Our photographers will guide you, but here are some tips to avoid looking like a startled deer:

• Relax your shoulders. Stress belongs in exams, not in your photos.
• Avoid the dreaded “T-Rex hands.” If you don’t know what to do with your hands, hold your diploma, rest them on your hips, or gently clasp them together.
• Smile naturally. Think of something that makes you happy (like never having to write another essay again). Avoid forced grins—this isn’t a school photo from the ‘90s.

Props & Personal Touches: Bring Your Personality!

Want to make your photos stand out? Consider adding a prop that represents you:

• Your degree certificate (or a scroll if it’s not arrived yet).
• A book related to your studies. (Yes, even if you never actually read it.)
• A fun sign with a message like “Hire me, please!” or “I survived!”

Timing & Preparation: Avoid the Last-Minute Rush

• Arrive early. Give yourself time to freshen up and get comfortable.
• Check your outfit before stepping in front of the camera. Nobody wants to spot a surprise coffee stain in their official graduation photo.
• Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. This is your celebration, and we’re here to make you look your best.

The Grand Finale: Celebrate in Style!

Once your shoot is over, it’s time to enjoy your success. Whether that means a quiet dinner with family, a night out with friends, or simply collapsing on the sofa in relief, make sure to mark the occasion. You’ve earned it!

We can’t wait to see you at our North London studios. Get ready to strike a pose, own your moment, and create graduation photos you’ll cherish forever (or at least until the next degree!)