General Tips for All Graduates

Getting Ready

  • Sleep well: Go to bed early the night before to avoid puffiness or dark circles.
  • Eat a proper breakfast / lunch on the day so you have energy and can stay relaxed in front of the camera. Bring water and light snacks.
  • Stay relaxed!

Timing and Preparation

  • Confirm the meeting time and location the day before your session. Arriving late affects the whole shoot schedule. Communicate in advance if any delays occur.
  • In case of bad weather (rain, extreme heat), contact your photographer in advance to adjust plans if needed.
  • For outdoor shoots, prepare for sun protection (hat/umbrella) or warmth (light jacket) depending on the forecast.

Props and Poses

  • Props Recommendations：Balloons, Flowers, Champagne spray, Confetti cannon, Textbooks, Sunglasses, School Stuffed animals, etc.
  • Don’t forget to bring gown, cap, and tassel!
  • Stay relaxed and communicate openly with your photographer about poses and angles you like. We'll find what works best for you.
  • If you need a break or touch-up at any point, just let us know. No rush.

A Friendly Reminder

  • Don't overthink! Your most genuine smile is always your best look.
  • If you have any questions before the shoot, don't hesitate to reach out. We can't wait to create beautiful memories with you!
A graduate in black gown and red sash sits on a white bench holding flowers, with autumn leaves falling near a modern building.
Two graduates in academic robes share a tender moment under a blooming pink cherry blossom tree in a sunny park.
Graduate in pink gown pops champagne bottle on stone steps outside building number 8 in joyful celebration.

Dress & Skirt Styling

Outfit

  • Academic gown: Pick up and try on in advance. Use pins to adjust the collar if needed.
  • Shoes: Comfortable heels or flats work best since we’re going to be doing a lot of walking.
  • Recommend ironing your clothes before the shoot.

Makeup & Hair

  • Lip color: Long-lasting formulas are ideal for easy touch-ups throughout the day.
  • Hair: Long hair can be worn down or in a half-up style with the graduation cap. Tidy your bangs in advance.
  • Bring along if necessary: A comb, bobby pins, hair spray, and your lipstick for touch-ups.

Accessories

  • Glasses wearers: Anti-reflective lenses are recommended, or consider removing your glasses for some shots.

Skin Prep

  • Get enough sleep the night before!
  • Avoid facial treatments (masks, exfoliation) on the day of the shoot to prevent redness or irritation.

Suit and Tailored Styling

Outfit

  • Academic gown: Pick up and try on in advance. The mortarboard should sit above your eyebrows and fit comfortably.
  • Inner wear: A collared shirt is ideal. A tie or bow tie adds a polished, classic touch.
  • Trousers: Well-fitted dark dress trousers would work best
  • Shoes: Dress shoes are the way to go, black or dark brown. Polish them the day before.
  • Recommend ironing your clothing before the shoot.

Grooming

  • Hair: Use wax or gel on the day for a neat, styled look.
  • Facial hair: Clean-shaven or keep any beard neatly trimmed. Avoid patchy or uneven stubble.
  • Eyebrows: Light grooming goes a long way, tidy brows make the face look sharper and more polished on camera.
  • Skin: Moisturize the night before. Avoid alcohol to prevent puffiness.

Accessories

  • Tie or bow tie: Choose colors that complement the gown. Deep navy, burgundy, or dark gray are timeless choices.
  • Glasses wearers: Anti-reflective lenses are recommended. Consider removing them for some shots.
  • A classic watch or sunglasses are great touches.