Don’t Forget! Your Quick Checklist for a Perfect Cap & Gown Photos

kimvanos

8 min read

Hey Graduates!

Getting ready for your Cap & Gown photos? Hooray! This is such an exciting milestone, and I can’t wait to capture these special memories for you.

To help make sure everything runs smoothly, and you feel totally prepared and confident, here’s a quick checklist of essentials and helpful tips. Review this before your session!

Your Graduation Regalia:

✅ Cap & Gown: The main event! Make sure they’re looking sharp (a quick steam or cool iron can help with wrinkles if needed).
✅ Tassel: Don’t forget it! Pro Tip: Attach it to your cap correctly before you arrive for your session.
✅ School Stole / Sash / Honors Cords: Bring any and all academic honors (like NHS stoles, specific program sashes, or honor cords) you’ve earned and want to showcase.
✅ Class Ring: If you have one, bring it! It’s a lovely personal detail to capture up close. Just let me know you have one.

Your Graduation Regalia:

✅ Wrinkle-Free Outfit: Choose something comfortable and neat that lays flat under the gown. Think dress pants/slacks, a skirt, or a simple dress. Please iron or steam it beforehand! Remember, parts of it might peek through near the collar or hem. (Important: Shorts don’t photograph as well for senior photos).
✅ Nice Shoes: They will likely show in some photos! Pick a pair that complements your outfit, that you feel confident in, and that you can comfortably stand/walk in for a short time.

Your Graduation Regalia:

✅ Jewelry / Accessories: Keep it relatively simple & clean. Delicate necklaces, earrings, or bracelets often photograph best and don’t distract from you and your achievement!
✅ Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit: Even for a mini session, it’s handy to have essentials just in case:
- Lip gloss or chapstick for quick touch-ups.
- Powder to quickly combat any shine, especially on warmer Avondale days!
- A few bobby pins or hair ties for quick fixes if the wind picks up.

Optional Fun Props (Pick One, If You'd Like!):

Want to add extra personality? Feel free to bring one prop that reflects you! (Keep it manageable for a mini session.)
Ideas: A small bunch of celebratory balloons, a custom sign (“Class of 2026!”, “Future Teacher!”, etc.), a bouquet of flowers, your future college pennant or t-shirt, something small representing your degree or future plans!

✅ Check Traffic: Please check your route for any closures or detours the day of your session. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive relaxed.
✅ Arrive Ready: Please come with your hair and makeup already done, ready to slip on your gown!
✅ Bring Water! Staying hydrated is always a good idea.

That’s it! Running through this quick checklist will help ensure you feel confident and prepared for your cap and gown mini session.

Most importantly: Relax, have fun, and let’s celebrate YOUR achievement! I’m excited to see you soon!

Kim