Graduation day is an exciting milestone that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one. It’s a day filled with emotions, from pride and joy to a little nervous anticipation. Whether you’re graduating from high school, college, or graduate school, preparation is key to ensuring that your commencement day goes smoothly and that you feel both comfortable and confident. In this guide, we'll go over how to prepare for commencement, including tips on choosing the perfect outfit, accessorizing, staying calm, and picking the right shoes. As a graduation photographer in San Antonio, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to help you feel your best on this important day.
1. Choosing the Right Outfit
Your commencement outfit is an important part of your day. It's the foundation of how you'll feel when you're walking across the stage to accept your diploma. The goal is to strike a balance between comfort, formality, and style while ensuring your outfit coordinates with your cap and gown.
- Coordinate with Your Cap and Gown Colors: The gown may be a neutral color or one tied to your school's colors. Depending on the tone, you want your outfit to complement it without clashing. For example, if your cap and gown are dark, consider wearing lighter colors underneath to create contrast, or stick to classic neutrals like black, white, or navy to maintain a cohesive look.
- Dresses and Skirts: If you're opting for a dress or skirt, make sure it's comfortable to sit in for a long time. Commencement ceremonies often involve a lot of waiting. Choose a hemline that falls at or just above the knee for a modest and comfortable look that won't feel too restricting under your gown.
- Suits and Dress Pants: If you prefer a suit or dress pants, go for something lightweight and breathable. A tailored look is always smart, but don't forget you'll be wearing a heavy gown, so layers may not be your best friend. Opt for a shirt or blouse with minimal wrinkles to maintain a polished look under your gown.
2. Accessorizing for the Occasion
Accessories can elevate your graduation look and help you stand out in photos without taking attention away from the achievement itself.
- Minimal Jewelry: Avoid anything too bold or chunky, as it may get tangled with your gown or cap. A simple necklace, stud earrings, or a bracelet can add just the right amount of shine. Keep in mind that any accessories around your neck may compete with the graduation stole or cords you'll be wearing.
- Caps and Tassels: Many graduates like to decorate their caps, which is a fun way to express your personality and celebrate your journey. Just be sure to keep it classy and avoid anything too large that might obstruct the view of others during the ceremony.
- Belts and Ties: For those wearing dress pants or skirts, a sleek belt or tie can pull the look together. Just make sure that your accessories match the overall color scheme and don't distract from your gown.
3. Choosing the Right Shoes
Graduation day will likely involve a lot of walking and standing, so your shoes are one of the most important decisions you'll make. You want shoes that are not only stylish but also practical for the occasion.
- Comfort is Key: Stick to shoes that you’ve already broken in to avoid blisters. Whether you're wearing heels, flats, or dress shoes, make sure they're comfortable enough for the long day ahead. For those who prefer heels, consider opting for a lower heel or a wedge for added stability.
- Flats or Low Heels: If you're not used to wearing heels, opt for flats or a low heel that you can comfortably walk in. Your graduation day is not the time to try out new, trendy shoes. Prioritize comfort and practicality.
- Dress Shoes for Men: For men, a pair of polished dress shoes will complete the look. Make sure they fit well and aren't too tight, as you may be wearing them for several hours. Loafers or oxford shoes are classic choices.
4. Staying Calm and Centered
It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and nerves of graduation day. Taking a deep breath and staying calm will help you enjoy every moment of this special occasion.
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the venue early. This will give you plenty of time to find parking, meet up with family and friends, and get settled without feeling rushed.
- Take a Deep Breath: Before you walk across the stage, take a moment to breathe and enjoy the experience. You've worked hard to get to this point, and this is your time to shine. Visualize yourself walking confidently and accepting your diploma.
- Prepare for the Wait: Graduation ceremonies can be long, and waiting for your name to be called may feel like forever. Bring something to pass the time—like chatting with classmates or simply soaking in the moment. Stay hydrated, but don’t drink too much to avoid making frequent trips during the ceremony.
5. The Importance of Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be on your feet for much of the day, so make sure your shoes aren’t just fashionable but practical as well. If your shoes are too high or uncomfortable, it could impact your overall experience. Avoid this by choosing shoes that are broken in and easy to walk in. Make sure your shoes match the formality of the occasion, but never sacrifice comfort.
6. Capture the Moment
Graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you want to capture it in the best way possible. Hiring a professional graduation photographer in San Antonio ensures that you’ll have high-quality photos to remember the day. Whether it’s posed shots with family or candid moments during the ceremony, these photos will last a lifetime. We recommend planning a session before or after the ceremony to capture you at your best without the crowds.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for commencement is about more than just picking the right outfit or shoes—it's about feeling confident and ready to celebrate your achievement. With a little planning, you’ll look and feel your best as you walk across the stage and into the next chapter of your life.
If you’re looking for a professional photographer to capture your commencement day, Mayfield's Photography can help. Our team specializes in creating beautiful, timeless images that will help you cherish this special day forever. For more details, visit Mayfield's Photography.
Contact us today to book your session: https://www.mayfieldsphotography.com/contact/. We’d love to be part of your celebration!
FAQ:
1. What should I wear for my graduation photoshoot?
For graduation photos, we recommend wearing an outfit that coordinates with your cap and gown colors. Choose a polished and comfortable look that reflects your personal style. You can opt for formal attire like dresses, skirts, or dress pants, depending on what makes you feel confident.
2. How far in advance should I book a graduation photoshoot?
It's best to book your graduation session at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during the busy graduation season. This gives you time to plan your outfit, coordinate with family or friends, and ensure you have the perfect setting for your photos.
3. Where are the best places in San Antonio for a graduation photoshoot?
San Antonio has many scenic spots for graduation photos, including the historic Pearl, local park, or the best option: on your college campus if you ave one! We also offer tailored sessions at your favorite locations, ensuring your photos reflect your personality and accomplishments.
4. Do you offer custom graduation packages?
Yes, we offer a variety of graduation photography packages to fit your needs. Whether you want a quick session or a more extensive photoshoot with multiple outfit changes, we have options that will capture your special day.
5. Can I include family or friends in my graduation photoshoot?
Absolutely! We encourage you to invite family and friends to join your graduation session. Celebrating this milestone with your loved ones can create beautiful, memorable photos.
6. How do I prepare for my graduation photoshoot?
To prepare for your photoshoot, choose a well-fitted outfit, accessorize tastefully, and bring any graduation-related props like your diploma, cap, or tassel. Also, remember to get plenty of rest the night before and arrive on time to ensure we capture all the moments.
7. How long does a typical graduation photoshoot last?
Our graduation sessions usually last about 1-2 hours, depending on the package you choose and the number of locations or outfit changes you'd like.
8. Can you accommodate indoor and outdoor graduation photoshoots?
Yes, we can shoot both indoors and outdoors, depending on your preferences. Many graduates opt for outdoor shoots at iconic San Antonio locations, but we can also arrange studio sessions if preferred.
9. How soon will I receive my graduation photos?
You can expect to receive your edited photos within 2-3 weeks after your session. We take pride in delivering high-quality images, and this time frame allows us to ensure your photos are perfect.
10. Why should I hire Mayfield's Photography for my graduation photos?
As a top-rated graduation photographer in San Antonio, Mayfield's Photography specializes in creating timeless, high-quality images that capture your accomplishment in the most authentic way. Our professional team ensures that every photo session is unique and personalized to you.
