Hey grad!
First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! This is a huge accomplishment that you have worked so hard for. I am looking forward to celebrating this milestone with you! My goal is to make your grad portrait experience easy and fun! I created this guide to give you some style help, some things to bring to your session, fun ideas, and other information. I am here to help in any way, so please do not hesitate to reach out to me!
juliereneephotos@gmail.com
972-730-4812
Let's Talk Locations!
This is a no brainer! Think of locations on campus or anywhere that is special to your college experience. Try to pick 3-4 top spots/areas on campus that you would like photographed. Consider walking distance, parking, and parking enforcement- no tickets please!
Outfit Help Please!
The best thing you can wear to your session is something that is comfortable! I highly recommend an outfit that either complements your school colors or will go well under your cap and gown. You can't go wrong with a solid colored dress and a college tee and jeans. You might also choose to incorporate a business formal look for the LinkedIn profile of course! Or maybe you choose to wear your scrubs for a few!
Must Haves and Fun Ideas!
-Cap, Gown, Stole, Tassel
-Class Ring
-Champagne
-Letter board
-Confetti- biodegradable only please!
-School colored smoke stick
-Scrubs and stethoscope
-School books
-Pets (bring someone to hold them!)
Session Day
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING ON TIME
Being on time to your session is VITAL. I don't say this because of my time...I say this because we are on the SUN'S time. Your session was planned around ideal lighting, so being late means you are losing that ideal lighting for your images. I highly recommend being at least 15 minutes early to your session. That way, even if you hit traffic (Highway 80 and Dallas traffic can be pretty awful!) or a delay.. it doesn't eat into your shooting time.
POSING + SHOOTING
After we meet and go over your outfits we will walk to our first spot and begin shooting. You might be nervous, feeling a little awkward, worrying about posing, etc. The good news is that I know how you feel and I am here to guide you the entire way. I don't expect you to be a model- in fact, none of the people in my photographs are. Posing you is MY job- you can just relax and have fun.
CHANGING OUTFITS + LOCATIONS
I will provide a stand up changing tent for you to change outfits. This helps save time walking back and forth to the car. If you feel more comfortable changing in the car that is completely okay! If it is super hot or cold outside we may take a few AC/heat breaks to cool down or warm up- I always plan in extra time for this so you can be comfortable.
Post Session
Once the session ends you will receive 3-5 sneak peek images the same day. All galleries will be delivered two weeks after the session date. All galleries are password protected and will be delivered electronically to your email. This password will be in the email and you and anyone you share it with can use it to download the images. A print release is included so you can print wherever you choose. I will also text you a mobile preview, however, it is recommended that you download the images via computer for printing. Screenshotting from the mobile preview link distorts the quality-trust me!
Printing
It is SO important that you print your images. I do offer printing through my print shop which is automatically connected to your gallery. The print shop uses professional print labs to deliver high-quality prints and products straight to your doorstep. You can even design and customize your graduation announcements there! Even better, I provide a print release for you to download and print your images wherever you choose!
FAQ
Weather Reschedules
All my seniors are guaranteed to have a sunny day for their session. What?! Yes, even in this Texas weather. If you are a senior wanting warm golden tones and dreamy lighting, it is absolutely worth the wait to reschedule your session if there is rain or tons of clouds. Trust me on this one, great lighting makes all the difference. I want your images to be the best they can be, so I try to be as flexible as possible with rescheduling.
How do I pay you?
I accept cash, check, Zelle, Venmo, or CashApp, and most major credit cards whichever is easiest for you. Payment is due the day of the shoot to ensure you receive your photos quickly.
Anything else I should bring to my session?
Come prepared to your session! Some essentials lipgloss/chapstick, bottles of water, and comfortable walking shoes. Also, be on time or arrive a little early so we can get started!
Can I bring other people to my session?
Yes! Bring a parent, friend, or a family member! Having someone there to assist you, carry a few things, and ensure you look your very best can make you feel more at ease. Bringing a pet? I recommend having someone else there to hold them when they are not in the photos. Family and friends are welcome to jump in for photos the last 5-10 minutes of your session.
Where can I change outfits?
I will provide a stand-up changing tent during your session. This allows us to save time walking back to the car or trying to find a restroom to change in. Or, whatever makes you most comfortable works great for me!
