Seniors Get Ready for Your Cap and Gown Session with These Essential Tips

Graduation will be here before you know it, and with just a few essential tips for your grad session, it will be stress free. Let me help you get ready for your cap & gown session. All photos by family and senior photographer, April Hurst Photography.

1. Plan Your Outfit! Yes, it still matters. I know you're thinking you'll be wearing a big gown over your outfit, and you will be. However, even under that gown you can see your outfit. I recommend wearing the very same outfit to your session that you will wear for graduation (shoes too). Not only will we take your photos with your gown fully zipped, but we'll also take photos without the gown. Your outfit matters.

2. Steam Your Gown, Sash, and Stole Too. Wrinkles absolutely show up in photos, and they definitely detract from cap and gown photos. An iron may burn your gown, so definitely refer to the care instructions as a steamer may be better. Remember to also steam your stole and sash, and even the clothes you're wearing under your gown. It absolutely makes a difference in your photos.

3. Speaking of All the Parts of Your Outfit! Lay your entire outfit out at least the day before your session. It's true, every year, I have one senior who forgets some little part of their graduation outfit. Do you have your cap, tassel, cords, stole, sash, every little part of your outfit? After laying it all out and making sure it's steamed, hang it to be ready and waiting for your session. Grab a small bag and place your cap and small items inside to keep them clean and prevent losing them on the way to your session.

4. Practice Your Cap Placement! Try that cap on before your session and figure out how it works with your hair. Bobby pins are your best friend, especially with spring winds. Bring a couple along, just in case. Your cap should be placed flat on your head, and not tilted too far back.

5. Finally, Bring the Family! For grad sessions, I invite your family to hop in for a few photos too. I promise, graduation day is a blur. So, dress the family up, and bring them along. You'll be glad your got a family photo before graduation day. We'll make sure you have the memory to save.

My favorite backdrop for cap and gown sessions are your high school campus. It makes the perfect final memory of your years spent learning and growing in such an important place to you. Check out some favorite graduation sessions below at Webb City and Joplin High Schools.

Are you ready for your Cap & Gown Session? Schedule yours HERE.