As a photographer “I don’t know how to pose” or “I feel awkward in front of the camera” are common phrases I hear from clients. I always reassure my clients that they have nothing to worry about! I got you covered with posing prompts and will make sure to help you feel as comfortable as possible in front of the camera. 


With grad season around the corner, I thought it would be fun to share my top 5 favorite grad poses! Hopefully this will help give you some inspiration and make you feel more confident going into your grad session. There are so many grad poses that I love, but here are my absolute favorites. 

5. The “Classic” Grad Picture


You know exactly what I’m talking about. This is the classic “grad” pose that everyone is obligated to take. Think about the picture that your loved one wants to frame or put on the fridge. Yes, that’s the one!


Although this pose may seem simple, there is something about putting on all the graduation gear that makes the moment feel more real. I’ve shown grad clients these pictures of themselves during sessions and they are in awe with the fact that they are graduating. It is almost like they couldn’t believe it until they saw themselves wearing the full graduation outfit! It is also a very special moment for family members at the session because this is the first time they are seeing their loved one in the cap and gown. 

Graduate in black cap and gown with gold sash poses outdoors on a sunny day.

4. Cap Toss or Cap in the Air


Recreating the iconic moment where grads toss their cap in the air is a MUST! It’s a great way to incorporate your cap in a new way and add some movement into your pictures. It’s a fun action shot that never disappoints. This is also a great prompt to start with if a client is feeling a little nervous because there is a task involved and it helps get them comfortable in front of the camera. 


Another variation of this pose is holding the grad cap in the air instead of actually tossing it! This is more of a “posed” version, but it is just as impactful. I personally love incorporating both versions into the session so the grad can choose their favorite!

Graduate in white dress and academic regalia throws cap on concrete steps with blue wall background.
Graduate poses in front of large yellow GO BEACH letters outdoors.

3. Sitting Grad Poses


I know this may come as a surprise, but sitting grad poses often can be some of my favorites. When I ask a grad client if they’d like to sit on a staircase or platform they often seem skeptical at first. Once I give them some direction and we try a few variations they end up loving the pictures!


Sitting poses allows the photographer to get a different perspective that isn't as easy when standing. You can get a slight downward angle if the photographer is standing or a direct eyeline shot if the photographer squats down to your level. It’s a great opportunity to get a good headshot or close up picture. You can also play around with it and add props in like a grad cap or bouquet of flowers.

Graduate in white dress with black and gold sash poses by flowering garden.

2. Champagne Spray


This is hands down the most fun grad prompt to capture. The champagne spray is iconic and in my opinion it’s the BEST way to end a grad session! 


Despite how much fun this pose is, many grads are nervous about “popping” the champagne bottle. They’re either afraid of opening the bottle or are scared they won’t get the spray they want. I always reassure my clients that I will explain the process beforehand and cue them while they are spraying the champagne. Another one of my tips is to bring an extra bottle just in case you want to try again. Sometimes just knowing there is more than one chance to get the perfect spray is enough to make the client feel more at ease!


Along with the champagne spray, I also like to incorporate the champagne into other poses before and after the spray. Before my clients pop the champagne, I prompt them to hold up the bottle in the air or hold it towards the camera in a “cheers” style motion. After they spray the champagne I suggest they drink it if they want to or do another silly pose with the bottle.

Graduate in black dress poses in fountain with water features spraying in background.

1. Stole over the shoulder


This is my number one favorite grad pose and it’s popular for a reason! It is a great way to incorporate your grad gear in a new way plus it offers a new angle that tends to be flattering. You can even add your gown over your shoulder with the stoles and hold the cap in your other hand for a different variation. This is a great pose for walkways or steps, but I find it looks good anywhere!

Graduate in white dress and light blue sash poses on steps with yellow handrails.
Graduate in black gown and honor cords poses on stone steps outdoors.