Most families have never done this before. If you’re planning San Luis Obispo graduation photos, you’re probably wondering what to wear, what to bring, and how to prepare for your session and whether to use the gown, stole, or both.
Whether you have a high school senior or a college graduate from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, this guide walks you through exactly what to bring, what to wear, and how to plan your session so it feels simple and stress-free.
Bring Everything (Cap, Gown, and Extras)
Bring everything you were given. You do not need to decide ahead of time.
For high school seniors:
- Cap
- Gown
- Tassel
- Any cords or medals
For college grads (including California Polytechnic State University):
- Cap
- Gown
- Stole
- Cords or sashes
Your final gallery will include a mix, so having everything gives you options.
Gown vs. Stole vs. No Gown
This is where most families get stuck.
Cap + gown
- Traditional
- Important for parents
- Works for both high school and college
Stole only (mostly college)
- Cleaner and more fitted
- Very popular for Cal Poly grads
No gown
- Looks like a lifestyle portrait
- Works especially well for high school seniors
Recommendation:
Do not skip the gown. Even if you prefer a modern look, you will want at least a few classic images.
What to Wear Under the Gown
This is the most important decision.
Your outfit needs to work with and without the gown.
For high school seniors:
- Girls: flowy dress, soft tones, something that moves
- Boys: jeans or chinos with a fitted shirt
For college grads:
- Slightly more polished overall
- Dresses or structured tops
- Button-down shirts for men
Key tip:
If choosing between short sleeve and long sleeve, go with long sleeve. It photographs better and looks more finished.
Male vs. Female Graduation Outfits (What Actually Looks Best)
For Male Graduation Photos
Aim for a smart-casual or business-casual look that feels polished but still natural.
- Button-down shirt (long sleeve preferred)
- Chinos, slacks, or clean dark jeans
- Optional: blazer or lightweight jacket
- Neutral colors (white, light blue, tan, navy)
Why this works:
- Clean under the gown
- Works when the gown comes off
- Timeless without feeling overdressed
Avoid:
- Graphic t-shirts
- Athletic wear
- Wrinkled or oversized clothing
For Female Graduation Photos
Focus on movement, fit, and soft color tones.
- Flowy dress or well-fitted outfit
- Soft neutrals, pastels, or muted tones
- Simple shoes that complement the look
Why this works:
- Movement photographs beautifully
- Light tones create a soft, timeless feel
- Keeps the focus on you
Avoid:
- Neon colors
- Tight, restrictive clothing
- Heavy or busy patterns
Best Colors for Female Graduation Photos
Wear white or light-colored outfits for a classic look.
Graduation is a celebratory milestone, so your outfit should feel bright and elevated.
Light colors work especially well because they:
- Contrast with gowns and stoles
- Reflect light beautifully outdoors
- Create a clean, timeless look
Great options:
- White
- Cream
- Soft pastels (light blue, blush, sage)
- Light neutrals
This is especially helpful at California Polytechnic State University, where the gown and stole are bold. A lighter outfit keeps everything balanced.
Do You Need to Match the Gown Color?
No.
- High school gowns vary
- College gowns (like Cal Poly’s green) are bold
Trying to match them usually makes outfits feel forced.
Instead:
- Stick to neutrals
- Keep colors soft
- Let the gown stand out
Keep Everything Wrinkle-Free (This Makes a Big Difference)
This is one of the most common issues, especially with college sessions.
Stoles wrinkle easily, and wrinkles show up clearly in photos.
What to do:
- Steam or iron everything before your session
- Hang the gown and stole instead of folding
- Bring them on a hanger
- Put the stole on right before photos
For shirts and dresses:
- Make sure everything is pressed
- Avoid pulling clothes straight out of a suitcase
Clean, wrinkle-free clothing makes your photos look more polished immediately.
What Parents Should Wear (If You’re in Photos)
Keep it simple.
- Neutral colors
- No busy patterns
- Slightly elevated but comfortable
You are there to support the graduate, not draw attention away.
Extra Things to Bring (Most People Forget These)
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Dress shoes to change into
- Hairbrush or comb
- Lip balm or quick touch-ups
- Water
Optional:
- Champagne bottle
- Letterman jacket (high school)
- Sports gear or props (high school seniors)
- Extra stoles or cords (college grads)
Best Locations for Graduation Photos in San Luis Obispo
One of the biggest questions is where to take graduation photos.
College Graduation Photos (Especially Cal Poly)
For graduates from California Polytechnic State University, the campus is usually the most meaningful location.
Most Cal Poly grads choose:
- The Cal Poly sign
- Their major building (engineering, business, etc.)
- Walkways or spots they spent time in
These locations make the photos more personal and connected to their college experience.
Some also choose:
- The beach (Pismo, Avila, Morro Bay)
- A favorite local spot
- A place tied to memories from their time here
High School Senior Photos
High school seniors typically take a different approach.
They are less focused on their school campus and more focused on personality and style.
Popular locations include:
- Sand dunes
- Beaches
- Gardens
- Open fields
- Downtown or urban areas
These locations create variety and allow the session to feel more personal and creative. If you’re still deciding on a location, read this blog on the best San Luis Obispo senior portrait locations.
How to Choose the Right Location
Think about what you want your photos to represent.
- College grads: your experience and accomplishments
- High school seniors: your personality and style
Both approaches work. The best choice is the one that feels meaningful to you.
What Your Final Gallery Will Actually Look Like
A well-rounded graduation gallery typically includes:
- Traditional cap and gown portraits
- Clean portraits without the gown
- Stole-only images (for college grads)
- Relaxed, candid moments
You do not need to overthink it. The session is designed to capture all of this.
San Luis Obispo Graduation Photos: Final Thoughts
If you are planning graduation photos in San Luis Obispo, whether for a high school senior or a graduate from California Polytechnic State University, you do not need to figure this out on your own.
I guide you through the entire process so your session feels simple, organized, and stress-free.
Rosa Clark is an award-winning San Luis Obispo Photographer specializing in family, maternity, and senior portraits. She has been recognized by the National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers (NAPCP) as a Master Photographer in the category of Lifestyle Family Photography. Her work has appeared in local publications like New Times San Luis Obispo and SLO Life Magazine. Rosa is a volunteer photographer for The Gold Hope Project, a childhood cancer non-profit organization.
In addition to photography, Rosa has been a practicing attorney for nearly 20 years. She brings that same level of professionalism, care, and attention to detail to every photo session. Rosa takes on a limited number of clients each month to provide a personalized, relaxed experience—and her calm, natural style has earned her over 60 five-star reviews on Google.
If you’re looking to thoughtfully document this chapter of life, get in touch to reserve your session and begin planning a personalized experience your family will value for years to come.
Sessions are limited each month to ensure a personalized experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
