The graduation cap toss is the iconic graduation photo that shows the ‘I did it’ feeling without words. But it’s trickier than it looks. Caps fly backward, tassels get tangled, and sometimes the cap has a mind of its own. The good news is, getting a great cap toss photo is all about technique and timing. After photographing more cap tosses at Woodburn Circle than I can count, I always share these tips with every WVU grad before they toss their cap.
Before You Toss: Get Your Cap Ready
A few minutes of prep makes a big difference. First, take off your cap before you toss it. If your cap is bobby-pinned to your hair, you might pull out some strands or mess up your style. Pin your cap for portraits, but unpin it right before you throw.
Next, make sure your tassel is secure. If it’s loose, it might fly off or get tangled. Hook it firmly onto the button, and make sure that your year charm is attached. If your cap is decorated, check that nothing is loosely glued, since a hard landing can knock off rhinestones or letters. For sturdy decorating ideas, see my graduation cap decoration ideas. (COMING SOON!)
Finally, make sure you know which cap belongs to whom. If you’re tossing with friends, all the caps look the same in the air and on the ground. Put a small sticker or your initials inside your cap to avoid mix-ups later.
The Throwing Technique That Works
Hold your cap by the edge of the flat board, not the band, with the top facing up.
Toss it straight up during the graduation cap toss so it stays above your head in the photo.
A gentle flick of your wrist works better than a big arm swing.
Aim to toss your cap about three to five feet above your head. If it’s too low, it hides behind your face. If it’s too high, it looks tiny in the sky. As soon as you let go, look up at your cap and smile, or throw your arms up to celebrate. Your reaction is what makes the photo, so don’t look at the camera.
Be prepared to try a few times. Most cap toss photos take three to five attempts to get the cap, your expression, and the light just right. I’ll count down for you each time so you know exactly when to throw.
Graduation Cap Toss Photo Ideas
The classic solo toss is a must: you in your cap and gown, arms up, cap floating above you. For a fun twist, try tossing and catching your cap, doing a look-back toss where you glance over your shoulder at the camera, or tossing while sitting on the steps with your gown spread out.
One of my favorite variations is the fake throw. Instead of letting go, you swing your cap toward the camera like you’re about to toss it right at me, then hold on. The motion sends your tassel flying and puts your cap front and center, so it’s a great way to show off a decorated cap. Bonus: there’s no chasing your cap across the grass afterward. Looking for decorating inspiration? See my graduation cap decoration ideas (COMING SOON!)
Cap tosses are even better with your people. For a best-friend toss, stand side by side and throw on the same count so your caps go into the air together. With a group toss, have everyone throw at once for a sky full of caps, and add confetti for extra color. Couples love a toss with a kiss underneath, and families can join in by tossing a cap together with their grad. For more group ideas, check out my best friend grad photo poses and tips.
You can also combine your cap toss with other celebrations, like popping champagne before or after. Just make sure to keep your cap away from the champagne spray.
The Best WVU Spots and Light for a Cap Toss
For a cap toss, you need open sky above you, so choose a spot without low branches or overhangs. At WVU, the open areas around Woodburn Circle are perfect, with Woodburn Hall’s red brick as your backdrop. The Woodburn Hall steps add some height and a classic look, and the University Avenue pedestrian bridge has beautiful golden-hour light for sunset photos. Check out my top 6 portrait locations at Woodburn Circle for more ideas.
Lighting is important too. Late afternoon and golden hour give you soft, warm light and a glowing sky behind your cap. That’s why my grad sessions start at 3 p.m. or later. Bright midday sun makes you squint and creates harsh shadows, so it’s best to save cap tosses for later in the day.
Mistakes to Skip on Photo Day
The most common mistake is tossing your cap too far forward. It can end up out of the frame or even land on the photographer, so toss it straight up. However, if done right, you certainly can throw your cap at the camera and smile like it’s going out of style. Another mistake is looking at the camera instead of your cap, especially when you’re tossing it straight up in the air. This can make your expression look stiff. Look up and react like you just found out you passed your last final.
Another thing to watch for is covering your face. If your arm crosses in front of your face when you throw, try tossing with your outside hand. In a group, make sure everyone throws at the same time by counting out loud together. And don’t forget to step aside—a falling cap corner can sting, so take a small step back or keep your hands up as it comes down.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Graduation Cap Toss
How do you throw a graduation cap for pictures? Hold the edge of the flat board, toss it straight up about three to five feet, and look up at the cap with a big smile as soon as you let go.
How many tries does a cap toss take? Usually three to five. It takes a few throws to line up the cap, your expression, and the light.
Should I pin my cap for the toss? Pin your cap for portraits, then unpin it before you throw so you don’t pull your hair.
Can I do a cap toss with friends? Yes. Group tosses are among the most loved photos from many sessions. Just count down together so everyone throws at the same time.
When is the best time of day for a cap toss? Late afternoon into golden hour, when the light is soft and warm, and the sky glows behind your cap.
Toss Your Cap at Woodburn Circle
You’ve worked for years to reach this moment. Toss your cap high and celebrate with the graduation cap toss. At Carrie White Photography, I’ll guide you through every moment. I’ll keep taking photos until we get the perfect shot for your graduation announcements.
Ready to book your WVU grad photos? Check out my sessions and reserve your spot. Let’s go, Mountaineers!
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