How to Prepare for Your Graduation Photo Session in Toronto

Graduation season in Toronto is one of our busiest times of year at ShotByRoi — and for good reason. Whether you're finishing a university degree, a college diploma, or a professional certification, your convocation photos deserve to be extraordinary. Here's how to make sure they are.

Book Early — Especially for U of T & York

Graduation photographers in Toronto get booked 4–8 weeks in advance during peak season (April–June and November). If your convocation is at the University of Toronto, York University, Ryerson (Toronto Metropolitan University), or Humber College, reach out as soon as you have your date confirmed. The best time slots — early morning before crowds, or late afternoon for golden-hour light — go first.

Choosing Your Outfit

Your gown is iconic. For the portraits underneath, choose solid colours that complement but don't clash with the gown colour. Navy, white, blush, and deep jewel tones tend to photograph beautifully. Avoid busy patterns or logos — they compete with you for attention in the frame. Press your outfit the night before. Wrinkles are permanent in photos.

Hair, Makeup & Grooming

If you're booking professional hair and makeup, schedule it for 2–3 hours before your session, not immediately before. You want it to settle naturally. Bring a touch-up kit — blotting papers, lip colour, a small mirror. For outdoor sessions in Toronto's spring weather, a light weather-resistant setting spray can be a lifesaver.

The Best Locations for Graduation Photos in Toronto

• University of Toronto's Front Campus — King's College Circle and the iconic Convocation Hall backdrop are unbeatable for classic academic portraits.
• Distillery District — Cobblestone streets and Victorian industrial architecture create a warm, editorial feel that's very different from the traditional campus shot.
• Edwards Gardens (Markham/North York border) — Stunning botanical garden setting, perfect for softer, romantic portraits.
• Harbourfront & Lake Ontario — Wide open waterfront views with the Toronto skyline create a clean, contemporary look.
• Your own campus — The buildings, hallways, and grounds where you spent your years have personal meaning. Don't underestimate them.

What to Bring to Your Session

Bring your degree, diploma scroll, or any props that are meaningful to you. A few candid shots with your cap in your hands, diploma held up, or the mortarboard thrown in the air create energy and variety. If you're bringing family, plan a schedule so everyone knows the order and isn't waiting around.

On the Day: Arrive Rested

This sounds obvious but it makes an enormous difference in your photos. Tired eyes and forced smiles are hard to photograph around. Get a full night's sleep, eat a proper breakfast, and arrive 10 minutes early to your session location so you're relaxed and present — not rushed.

At ShotByRoi, our graduation sessions in Toronto and Markham are relaxed, collaborative, and designed to bring out your most natural energy. Reach out today to check availability for your convocation date.