Your session starts here

This is more than a photo session — it’s the celebration of years of hard work. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before your Tish O’Connor Photography graduation session so you can arrive feeling confident, prepared, and completely yourself. Let’s celebrate!

THE GRADUATION EXPERIENCE

LADIES

01 — Plan Your Outfits

Bring your primary dressy outfit to wear under your cap and gown. You’re also welcome to bring a second look to change into for added variety. Many graduates choose to incorporate an alumni t-shirt or sweatshirt, or a more casual outfit, for a relaxed and celebratory feel.

02 — Steam Everything

Wrinkles show quickly on camera — steam or press outfits as well as graduation gown ahead of time and transport on hangers or in a garment bag. And don’t forget to steam your stole as well!

03 — Schedule Hair Thoughtfully

Fresh trims and touchups are great the week before. Avoid drastic color changes or cuts right before your session.

04 — Makeup Prep

Slightly more defined than everyday makeup photographs beautifully. Don’t forget powder for shine control.

05 — Skin and Self-Care

The week before your session isn’t the time to try something new. Stick to your normal routine, stay hydrated, and get good sleep. If using self-tanner, apply it at least a three days to one week ahead so it settles evenly, avoiding overly dark or orange tones.

06 — Prep Your Nails

Ensure nails are clean and well-groomed. Natural is perfectly fine, but if wearing polish, avoid chips and choose a shade that complements your look.

07 — Bring Touch-Up Essentials

Pack lip color, powder, bobby pins, comb, gel, hair brush, hair spray, mirror, chapstick or anything else you may want for touch ups.

08 — Bring Meaningful Details

Stoles, cords, honor medals, champagne, confetti, or anything representing your degree or next step. Pro tip: Schools often hand out cords close to graduation, so you might not have yours at the time of your session. You can order the correct color on Amazon to include in your session photos.

09— Pack Comfy Shoes

Campus sessions often involve walking between locations, so a comfortable pair of shoes will make it easier to transition between outfits and spots.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

→ Hair appointments — If you're thinking about a new hairstyle, plan to do a week or so before your session or wait until after. Senior portraits are not the time to experiment! Play with your styles a few days beforehand so you know exactly what you want.

→ Professional hair + makeup is totally optional for my sessions. Do whatever makes you feel most like yourself!

→ Still not sure about outfits? Bring an extra option or two. Sometimes seeing your choices at the location helps you decide — and that is completely okay!

Guys

01 — Outfit Tips

Choose a well-fitted outfit. Tailored shirts and properly fitted pants elevate your look instantly. Many graduates choose to incorporate an alumni t-shirt or sweatshirt, or a more casual outfit, for a relaxed and celebratory feel.

02 — Steam Everything

Wrinkles are noticeable on camera. Remove gown and stole out of packaging before your session an be sure to STEAM ahead of time. Transport on hangers or in a garment bag.

03 — Grooming

Get your haircut 5-7 days before your session — not the day before — so your hair has time to settle and look natural. If you have facial hair, make sure it's trimmed and clean. Nails should be clean and trimmed. Basically just show up as the most polished, put together version of your everyday self.

04 — Bring Your Degree Details

Be sure to pack and bring your cap, gown, cords, stole, diploma cover and any outfit changes or celebratory items.

05 — Empty Your Pockets

Phones and wallets create bulky lines in photos.

06 — You’ve Got This

I’ll guide you through natural poses so you feel confident and comfortable.

LET’S CELEBRATE!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • For PSU students, we typically include up to 3 campus locations per session. On smaller campuses, we can visit multiple spots to create a variety of looks and backgrounds throughout your session.

  • Absolutely not, I got you! However, if you have photo inspo you want to share or poses you’re hoping to capture, feel free to send me pics before your photoshoot.

  • Absolutely! Just give me a heads’ up, but your friends are certainly welcome to join for a few group photos.

  • Absolutely YES! I encourage my grads to bring whatever props they like. Champagne and confetti are super popular choices but feel free to bring anything significant to your major, diploma holders, pennants, etc.

  • Sessions can take place on overcast days, but not in gloomy or rainy weather. If needed, we’ll reschedule for the next available date near your original session to ensure the best lighting and experience.

  • Gallery delivery is typically 2-3 weeks after your session date.

  • Absolutely! It’s so fun when grads include their dogs or cats in their session! Seeing them in festive college gear and capturing those heartfelt moments adds an extra special touch to the photos.

  • Payment is due by the day of your photo session.