what to wear for your grad photo session
Choosing what to wear for your grad photos can feel like a big decision — but it doesn’t have to be. Your session is about you: your personality, your story, and this milestone in your life. You don’t need to wear a suit or something that feels unnatural. The most important thing is that you’re comfortable and confident — because when you feel like yourself, it shows.
Keep It Real
Your grad session should reflect who you are right now. If your everyday style is jeans and sneakers — wear them. If you love soft dresses, cozy sweaters, or vintage pieces, bring those. The best photos happen when you’re relaxed, moving naturally, and feeling like yourself.
As a Vancouver grad photographer, my goal is to make your session feel fun, easy, and true to you — not a stiff studio setup.
Two Outfit Changes
Every grad session includes the option for two outfit changes, giving you variety in your final gallery.
Consider choosing one casual look that feels like your everyday style, and one slightly more elevated look — something you’d wear for a special night out, but still feels like you.
For girls:
Flowy dress or skirt with a soft blouse
Jeans with a cropped sweater, denim jacket, or oversized blazer
For boys:
Collared shirt layered over a plain tee with chinos or dark jeans
Swap to a casual jacket, flannel, or clean hoodie for a second look
Bring Something That Represents You
Your grad photos should tell your story. Bringing a prop or item from your hobbies can make your session even more personal and meaningful.
Think about what matters to you — a rugby ball, dance shoes, guitar, sketchbook, camera, or instrument. These pieces of your life help tell your story visually and bring natural emotion to your photos.
When you bring something you love, it’s easier to relax, have fun, and let your personality shine through.
Think About Colour and Texture
Vancouver’s outdoor backdrops — from the beaches of Spanish Banks to the greenery of Steveston or the urban edge of Gastown — all pair beautifully with natural tones.
Try soft whites, creams, blues, greens, and muted earth tones like tan or rust. These shades complement the light and scenery and keep the focus on you.
Avoid bold patterns, bright neon, or large logos that can pull attention away from your face.
Shoes and Accessories
You’ll be walking, sitting, and moving during your session, so choose shoes that are comfortable and true to your style.
Simple accessories — a hat, necklace, bracelet, or watch — can add a personal touch without being distracting. Sometimes, less really is more.
Be Yourself
There’s no one right way to dress for your grad session. What matters is that you look like yourself — relaxed, confident, and excited about what’s next.
Your photos should celebrate the person you’ve become, not fit someone else’s idea of what “grad photos” should look like.
Ready to Book Your Grad Session?
Let’s create photos that celebrate who you are right now — no stiff poses, no forced smiles, just the real you.