As a wedding and engagement photographer, I often get asked what outfit you should wear to your engagement shoot. For many of my clients, this is the first time they have had professional pictures taken together as a couple, and it can be nerve-wracking picking the perfect outfit!
But, engagement photos are meant to be a fun and sweet way to capture you as a couple. So, I have put together my tips for how to pick and engagement session outfit. From how to coordinate to what colors to wear, I have advice! If you are looking for more inspiration, make sure to check out my Pinterest board! This is what I send clients, to show my favorite engagement outfits.
How To Get Ready For Your Engagement Session
One of my biggest tips for your engagement session is to have professional hair and makeup. Not only does it look amazing on camera, but you feel extra glamorous! Plus, you will feel a lot less stressed on the day, since you won’t have to worry about having a good hair day, or if your makeup is perfect.
This is also a great opportunity to have your hair and makeup trial, so that you can work with the artist you book for your wedding. You will be able to see how the process goes, and decide if you want to make any adjustments to your final wedding day look. And while you are pampering yourself, get a manicure and pedicure so you feel more camera ready. We will be getting lots of ring shots, so a fresh coat of nail polish always helps. You could even make this a fun date with your partner! Having a fun spa day is always a good idea.
See more of Meg and Callahan’s Engagement Session
Pick an engagement session outfit that coordinates.
While you don’t want to be too “matchy” in photos, you do want to pick outfits that complement each other. One way is to wear the same “dressiness” as your partner. If one person is wearing a formal gown, then the other should match in appropriateness. Another way is to wear complimenting colors. Hang up the items next to each other before the shoot, to make sure the colors coordinate. Some of the best-popping color palettes? Blue and white (like Wendy & Paul below), gray with white or a soft blue, or cream and khaki.
My favorite color palate (and my next tip): Neutrals!
Stick with neutrals.
I suggest sticking to a neutral or soft color palette for both of you. It always photographs well, and allows you to both stand out (and not your outfit!) Plus, it keeps the images timeless, and match your home décor (year after year!). I often shoot our engagement sessions shortly before sunset, so that we get the best golden hour glow. So softer colors tend to look the best in the glow of the evening.
See more Dessa and Stephens Engagement Session
Wear what makes you feel your best.
Dresses with a lot of movement always photograph beautifully. It feels extra romantic, feminine and makes for some beautiful shots. Pair it with a pair of heels, to elongate your legs. But my biggest tip? Pick something you feel comfortable in! You are going to look amazing in your photos, but we all know that we feel a bit better when we wear something we feel good in. The more comfortable you are, the better you will feel during your shoot! Remember, you will be photographed from different angles, so make sure you love the way the outfit looks from the side and back. If you feel like yourself, the more natural you will come across in pictures!
See Charlie and Claire’s Engagement Session
Add a pattern (but keep it balanced!)
Adding a subtle pattern to your outfit can make for some gorgeous pictures, and show off your personality. But, make sure to keep it subtle. A floral is always a winner, as Angela wore below. But it’s also important to balance the pattern in your outfit. If one person wears a pattern, keep the other neutral to complement it. Too many patterns can get too busy, and you want these pictures to be timeless.
See more of Angela and Eric’s Session
Don’t be afraid to wear white.
Give a nod to your upcoming wedding day by wearing something white or cream. It is romantic, and photographs beautiful in the sunset. Some tips for wearing white – a bone white or soft white can look best on skin tones and having your makeup professionally is extra important when wearing white!
Have a few options.
I always recommend having a second outfit for the shoot. This way, you can get a second look all in the same day! Whether it’s one casual outfit and one more formal, or two different dresses, having different options can make for beautiful photos you can use on multiple occasions. For the men, a simple shirt change can do the trick. This is why I also suggest having a few layers. Adding a jacket or sweater can easily change up the look, without having to completely change your outfit. Adding a sports coat with dark jeans or khakis can really elevate the overall outfit!
See more of Kim and Nick’s engagement session.
My favorite stores to shop for your engagement outfit:
Free People
Anthropologie
Madewell
J.Crew
Stag
Reformation
Have fun!
The most important tip for your engagement outfit? Have fun! Don’t be afraid to get goofy, be ready to connect with your partner and laugh a lot. The best pictures are those when you are the most comfortable. This is a great way to get to know me, your wedding photographer, before the big day! For my couples, I even have a wardrobe stylist on call! That way you can have your outfits expertly styled and know you will feel your best.
