What to wear.

Your outfit sets the tone for the whole shoot. Here is how to pick pieces that look incredible on camera and still feel like you.

• Go classic, not trendy. You will look at these photos for decades. Timeless silhouettes and solid colours age far better than whatever is trending right now.
• Stick to neutral tones. Whites, creams, tans, soft blues and sage greens photograph beautifully. They complement every skin tone and never clash with the campus backdrop.
• Layers are your friend. A blazer over a simple top, a cardigan draped on your shoulders. Layers add dimension and give you more variety between shots.
• Comfort over everything. We walk between spots. Bring your good shoes for the posed shots and wear comfortable ones in between. Clean sneakers work.

A few of the outfits that worked. Swipe through.

Colours that photograph best.

White, cream, tan, sage, dusty blue, blush, black and burgundy. All of them work with the University of Guelph campus in every season; the greens and limestone do the rest.

For her.

A few extra details to make sure you feel your absolute best on shoot day.

• Test your makeup first. Do a trial run a few days before. Subtle looks read even more subtle on camera, so go slightly bolder than everyday. You will not regret it.
• Think about undergarments. Seamless, nude-toned pieces keep lines out of light or fitted clothing. Strapless options are great for off-shoulder looks.
• Heels? Bring backup. If you want heels in your photos, carry them and swap for the posed shots. We walk between campus spots, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Fresh nails, optional but nice. Your hands show up more than you think, especially holding your diploma. A clean, neutral manicure goes a long way.

Regalia.

Wearing regalia for part of the session? Steam or press it the night before: creases are the one thing we cannot fix afterwards. Bring every cord, stole and pin from clubs and honours, and we will decide on the day what goes in the frame.

What to bring.

A quick packing list so nothing gets forgotten on the big day.

• Your regalia, steamed and neat, if you are wearing it.
• One or two outfit changes for variety between looks.
• Comfortable walking shoes for between spots, and your photo shoes if they are different.
• A touch-up kit: lip colour, blotting sheets, hair ties, bobby pins.
• Meaningful props: textbooks, a stethoscope, a jersey, your favourite coffee.
• A water bottle and a snack. Seriously, you will need the energy.
• A good playlist and good vibes. We handle the rest.

The day, step by step.

Roughly how your session day should look. The less rushed you are, the better the photos turn out.

1. The night before. Lay out your outfits, steam anything that needs it, charge your phone and get a good night’s sleep. Drink some water; your skin will thank you.
2. The morning of. Take your time getting ready. Do your hair and makeup without rushing. Eat something. Leave earlier than you think you need to.
3. Arriving on campus. Meet us at the agreed spot from your confirmation email. We start with the formal portraits, then move through campus to the spots you picked.
4. During the session. Relax and have fun. We guide you through every pose. You do not need to know how to model, just show up and be yourself.
5. After the session. A sneak peek lands within 48 hours and your full gallery within 7 days, in a private online gallery to view, download and share. After you book has the whole timeline.

Keep reading.

• The grad session checklist: everything to sort between booking and shoot day, in order.
• Guelph grad backdrops: fifty spots on campus and in the Arboretum, and what each one is good for.
• The weather plan: what happens if it rains.

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Ready to book your session?

Spots fill fast around convocation and peak fall colour. Pick your package and date on the booking page and we will plan the route, the timing and the light around you.