Let’s face it — a cap and gown isn’t the cutest item of clothing you could possibly wear. The cap never sits right and you’re practically drowing in the gown. How in the world are we going to make these flattering on camera? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

I ALWAYS like to start with the cap off. I don’t want to mess with the hair you’ve spent time styling so we’ll save it for last. I prefer to begin any grad session with your gown on and unbuttoned with cap in hand. We want to show off that cute new dress or suit you just bought! There’s a few variations to this pose:

• You can hold the cap at your waist with corners pointed up.
• You can hold the cap in one hand with your arm resting at your side. Then, resting your other hand on your hip (or your pocket).
• While seated, you can rest the cap in your lap.

I have a few tips with a pose like this: Make sure the cape of your gown is open, showing your outfit underneath. I usually ask the girls to push the gown back when placing their hand on their hip. Keep in mind, with any standing poses, I recommend crossing your legs at the ankle when both standing and sitting.

Add a little bit of energy

Let’s add a little bit of energy to these poses! When holding the cap by your side with one hand, face your shoulder to the camera and kick a leg up. You can look over your shoulder and let out a giggle for a good personality shot.

More to your leg kick

Keeping the leg kick in mind, hold that pose but swap your cap to your back hand. Now, raise your cap in the air and bring out your cheesy smile. You just graduated!!!!!! This is my favorite pose to do with grads. It’s like a mini cap toss!

Throw the gown over your shoulder

Next, take that gown off! We’re going to throw this over your shoulder. This makes a great walking pose. You could also turn away and look over your shoulder towards the camera, showing off your stole.

Ditch the gown

Now it’s time to ditch the gown entirely. These always become my favorite photos in the gallery. They just feel so much more like YOU. I like to keep the same guidlines as our first few posing options. Pick your favorite one! I love asking grads to hold their cap at their waist while turning their shoulder towards me. This gives a little more of an angular look that’s super flattering. From here, you can smile towards the camera or look back over your shoulder.

The cap goes on

Finally, the cap goes on. (Reminder: The pointed side or the rouched side goes in the back, depending on the type of cap you have.) My go to pose is holding the corner of your cap with one hand while looking off to the side. You could also hold onto your cords.

Champagne pop

Lastly, it’s about time for the champagne pop!!!!! Don’t worry about being too perfect for this one. It’s all about being candid and in the moment. We’re celebrating! After getting the cap off, hold your thumb over the bottle. When you’re ready, shake up and down and side to side. Let all the giggles out for this one and you’re bound to get a great shot.

Are you graduating this year? Congratulations!!!! Let’s celebrate together.