Guide to

Graduation  photos

What to Expect

Before the Shoot

Here are a few things to do in the days leading up to your shoot:

  • Hydrate & Eat: Don’t skip meals! A nutritious meal beforehand will keep you energized and feeling good.

  • Try on your outfits: Make sure everything fits well, is comfortable, and gives you confidence.

  • Steam your stoles & outfits: Wrinkle-free clothes photograph so much better—don’t forget to iron or steam in advance.

  • Gather inspiration: Browse Pinterest or Instagram for pose and outfit ideas you like. I’ll help guide you

    during the shoot, but having a vision for your vibe helps us get the perfect shots faster.

  • Pack any props you’d like to include: Champagne bottles, confetti poppers, balloons, flowers, signs, or anything that reflects your personality or major.

After the Shoot

Here’s the timeline for your edited photos:

  • Within 1–2 days: I’ll send a private online gallery where you can choose your favorite photos to be edited.

  • Within 1–2 weeks: You’ll receive the final, fully edited photo gallery ready for download and sharing!


*Just a heads up—I don’t send out raw (unedited) photos. The raw files are super flat and unfinished, and they don’t reflect the final look or vibe I go for with my work. I put a lot of care into making sure the edited photos are clean, polished, and post-worthy!

If you end up loving more photos from the preview gallery and want extra ones edited, no problem at all—I'm happy to edit more for a small extra fee. Just shoot me a message and we’ll make it happen!

During the Shoot

Here’s how it’ll go down:

  • Flexible & fun vibes: There’s no strict time limit—I want to make sure we get everything you’re happy with. 

  • Posing guidance: Whether you’ve modeled before or this is your first shoot, I’ve got you. I’ll direct you with easy

    poses and natural prompts.

  • Variety of shots: We’ll take a mix of full body, close-ups, candids, walking shots, and any custom ideas you have (cap toss, popping champagne, etc.).

  • Wardrobe changes: If you have outfit changes, let me know! We’ll plan locations accordingly.

  • Group & solo shots: If you're taking photos with friends, we’ll do both group shots and individual portraits so everyone gets their moment.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

  • Bring all your grad gear: Cap, gown, stoles, cords, tassel—better to have too much than realize you left something important at home.

  • Props that make photos pop:

    • Champagne bottles

    • Confetti poppers

    • Flowers

    • Letterboard or small chalkboard

    • Your diploma holder

    • Items that represent your major (ex: stethoscope, books, camera)

  • Wearing a lip color—gloss, liner, or lipstick makes a huge difference in photos,

    especially from a distance.

  • Bring a blazer: Great for quick headshots that can be used professionally.

  • Touch-up kit: Toss the following in a bag:

    • Hairbrush or comb (flyaways will happen)

    • Hairspray

    • Oil blotting sheets or powder

    • Lip product for reapplication

    • Safety pins or fashion tape (wardrobe malfunctions)

  • Comfortable shoes (for walking): We’ll be moving between locations—feel free to bring comfy shoes and change into heels/dress shoes for the photos.

  • Relax and have fun: The best photos happen when you’re enjoying yourself! Bring a playlist if that helps get the vibe right.

Who am I

Hey! I’m Gil —a Finance and Marketing major at UIUC, a freelance creative, and a Creative Intern with Illini Athletics and Football.  My grad photoshoot journey started two years ago when I took my sister’s graduation photos. That experience made me realize how special it is to capture moments like these—and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m here to help you celebrate your big milestone through photos that feel genuine and true to who you are.