Your Graduation Photoshoot Timeline
Hello class of 2024 and those of you coming up next! Congratulations! Advancing in your education is a big deal, you deserve to have all of your hard work and dedication honored.
But, have you started preparing for your graduation photoshoot? Nothing halts the celebration process faster than not having your photos for your announcements, your event planner, or just something to post on instagram.
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. This graduation photoshoot timeline will help you prepare for your special day, ensuring that you capture every significant moment.
3-6 Months Before Your Graduation Photoshoot
Of course I would love to be the one who captures this special moment for you, but I also recognize that photography is not a one-size-fits-all business. It is important that you find the right photographer for you. So do your research online, through friends and family, and make sure you look at their portfolio.
Related: Royal T Visuals’ Graduation Photography
Schedule A Consultation With the Photographer
You might like their work but that doesn’t mean they aren’t booked or they can get your unique vision. During the consultation, discuss your ideas, locations, preferences, and any specific shots you'd like. Keep in mind if you want your photographer to travel to your campus their might be a travel fee associated.
Get & Try On Your Photoshoot Outfit(s)
Style is everything! You may have read other blogs or received my emails in the past, so you already know what I’m going to say here, but humor me for the new people. TRY ON YOUR CLOTHES BEFORE PHOTOSHOOT DAY! I’m serious! If you have chosen a location with a lot of walking, consider packing a pair of comfortable shoes. Taking your pictures in your cap and down? Iron it or Steam it. But do not just take it out of the package and put it on the day of. Start thinking about how many outfits you’d like that will reflects your personal style.
2-4 Weeks Before Photoshoot
Coordinate with family and friends. Even if you do not plan on having anyone else in your shoot, an extra pair of hands the day of is priceless, especially for wardrobe changes. Make sure you get with everyone to coordinate schedules and let them know exactly how and why you need their help.
Get Your Props
Don’t forget to order your props! Your prop adds to the story you are telling in your grad photos. Think outside of the box and really tell your story.
Finalize Your Session Date & Time
Confirm the date and time of your photoshoot with your photographer. Remember, if you are shooting outdoors speak with your photographer about timing and location choices so they can get the best shots.
Hair and Makeup
Schedule all hair and makeup appointments. I highly recommend getting your makeup professionally done by someone you know and trust. The same goes for your hair. This is not the time to try that Tiktok viral barber or to get a new style. Your photographer can correct flyaway hairs. We can do our best to blend your makeup. However, at the end of the day, if you are unhappy with your appearance before you step in front of the camera, I guarantee that no matter how great your photographer or edits, you will still be unhappy with your images, and no one wants that!
Related: 4 Things To Avoid Before your Photoshoot
The Day Before Your Session
Check the weather and make sure to plan for anything. That means if you know its going to be hot and you have makeup on pack your water, blotting paper, and whatever you’ll need. For situations like bad weather, I recommend you contact your photographer and see what can be done to make sure you still get your graduation photos.
Prepare Your Essentials Bag
Prepare a bag with essentials such as:
Water
Snacks
Comb or Brush
Bobby pins
Safety pins
Make-up
Graduation Photoshoot Day
If you booked with me, then you should have received a reminder with all of your shoot details and several prior emails with posing tips and tricks to get ready. If you booked with another photographer, hopefully they sent something similar. Remember, before you leave your driveway do one last inventory check, especially for small things like lipgloss or earrings or that pesky tassel that always falls off the cap.
Related: 6 Ways To Prepare For Photoshoot Day
After Your Graduation Photoshoot
Congratulations! Hopefully your photographer made you feel at ease and you have a good variety of photos to choose from. We have a process as well, and during your consultation call, and the day of your shoot we’ll review it all again. No matter if you worked with me, or another photographer, be sure to ask about their printing options for graduation announcement cards, albums, and other options customized to preserve your favorite images.
