Graduation Shoot Guide

Written By Guramrit Malhotra

Hey there! I’m G (Guramrit Singh Malhotra or just say G) , and after photographing over 400+ grads across Southern California, I’ve seen it all — forgotten caps, champagne showers, and last-minute outfit swaps. This guide is here to help you prep, pose, and show up like the star you are for your graduation photoshoot.

Whether it’s your first time in front of a camera or you’re already an IG model, this guide has something for everyone.

📦 What to Bring to Your Graduation Shoot

Let’s get the essentials out of the way — don’t leave home without these:

  • Cap 🎓

  • Gown

  • Stoles (plural if you’ve got more than one!)

  • Tassel

Pro tip: Pack everything the night before and triple-check before heading out.

👗 What to Wear: Outfit Tips

For the Ladies

A white dress? Timeless. But don’t be afraid to bring out bold colors like navy, blush pink, or even a sleek black. Bring comfy shoes to walk in — you can always change into heels once we find our spot.

Extras to toss in your tote:

  • Bobby pins (for the cap!)

  • Hairspray

  • Makeup touch-up kit

  • Fashion tape

🎉 Props That Add Personality

Props can make your photos feel uniquely you. Here's what I recommend:

  • Champagne (for the iconic pop shot)

  • Sunglasses (channel your cool grad vibes)

  • Flower bouquet (elegant and colorful)

  • School plushie (Zot Zot 🐜!)

  • Confetti alternatives: flower petals or dried florals work beautifully (eco-friendly and mess-free)

📸 Posing Like a Pro

I’ll walk you through 5-6 base poses during the shoot, but here’s a preview:

  1. Crossed Arms – Professional, relaxed. Great for LinkedIn.

Hip Shot / Hands in Pockets – Casual power pose.

Stole Shot – On or off? Both. One's pageant-core, the other, power-grad.

School Hand Sign – Zot Zot, Fight On, or whatever reppin’ your school looks like.

Reverse-Reverse – Looking back at your legacy. Iconic.

🎓 Fun With the Cap

There’s so much you can do with just the cap:

  • Toss it

  • Hold it in front of your face

  • Balance it

  • Back of the head shot

  • Wear it proud

Let’s get creative —

Props/Creative:

Family/Partners/Friends/Pets :

✨ Last Notes

Don’t overthink it. These photos are meant to celebrate you. I’m here to guide you the whole way, and we’re going to have a blast doing it.

🔥 Bonus: Book Your Grad Session

Ready to book your shoot? Let’s make magic.

Guramrit Malhotra
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