The Best Tips for a Champagne Pop!

The iconic champagne spray is a perfect way to capture the celebratory spirit of your graduation session. It adds energy, excitement, and glamour to your photos, making you feel dynamic and full of life. It’s not just about the spray—it’s about the emotions behind it. This playful and festive shot is a chance to let loose, have fun, and celebrate all your hard work in style. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser and an excellent way to end your session on a high note! Check out my best tips for a champagne pop at your college graduation session!

Picking the Right Location

There are a few things to consider if you plan to include a champagne shot for your graduation photos. If your session is taking place on your college campus, make sure your campus isn’t considered a “dry campus.” The last thing you want is to pop a bottle of champagne and have campus security confront you about this issue.

Champagne is very STICKY and will go everywhere! I recommend shooting this part of your session in an area outside where you won’t get things wet. No matter where you decide to set this up, make sure that you pick up any trash afterwards, including any corks, caps, and wire cages – leave nothing behind.

Choosing the Perfect Bottle

Most people think that choosing a champagne bottle with a cork is better than getting one that’s twist-off. However, the truth is, it doesn’t matter — either type of bottle will work fine! As far as the brand, that is completely up to you! Whether it’s Korbel, Cooks, or André, there are several inexpensive options that you can find at the store. If you are of age, I recommend getting actual champagne rather than a sparkling cider. There is usually more carbonation inside a champagne bottle compared to a cider. Make sure that the bottle is well chilled, but not frozen.

How to Pop the Bottle

This is the most important thing you need to know: you’re not actually popping the bottle, meaning that you shouldn’t shake the bottle before opening it. It’s a common misconception that the bottle will automatically pop when shaking it, but this isn’t true. Here are my foolproof directions that will get you a great champagne pop every time!

First, you remove the cork/cap from the bottle very gently away from your face (a towel comes in handy for this step!). Then, you cover the spout of the bottle with your thumb to keep the bubbles inside. Once ready, support the bottle from the bottom and leave a little bit of space between your thumb and the spout. Then you’ll shake as hard as you can until it starts spraying everywhere! After there is no more fizz left in the bottle, you can take some photos with the bottle and have a drink. If your session includes friends, you can click the bottles together, show off the labels if you want, hold them in the air, and have a toast!

By following my best tips for your next champagne pop, you will have a fun and successful moment celebrating your four years of hard work on your college campus! Are you ready to have these special memories documented? Visit my contact page so we can schedule a date for your graduation session!