Deciding on the perfect outfit for engagement photos can be difficult, but hopefully these tips can spark some inspiration!
Disclaimer: I am by no means an expert on fashion, and above all else, I encourage couples to select clothing that’s reflective of their personalities vs. what’s trendy or curated. Please use these tips as simply a guide or starting point, then add your own style.
For engagement sessions, I typically recommend being photographed in 2-3 different outfits. Each outfit change takes some time, so keep in mind the time you spend changing outfits takes away from the time we have shooting. You can always bring more outfits and your photographer can help you select which ones would be best given the location, time of day, etc.
Tip 1: Balance patterns + solids
When selecting your outfits, it’s important to think about balancing patterns and solids. For instance, if one individual is wearing a patterned shirt or dress, the other should opt for a solid. It’s okay for you both to wear solids, but I would stay away from both wearing bold patterns.
An easy way to pair the items is to select the patterned item first, and then selecting a solid colored item from one of the colors in the pattern. I.e. if your patterned dress has shades of blue, white, pink; have your partner wear one of those colors in a solid form.
Note: men’s dress shirts sometimes have very subtle of patterns; in those cases, you can get by both wearing patterns.
Tip 2: The color of clothing affects the overall “feel” of the photos
The color of the clothing is probably the most important piece in determining the overall “feel” of the photos. Light colors and neutrals will lend to a more bright + airy feel, whereas darker colors will give you slightly moodier photos. If in doubt, white is always a timeless, flattering choice that matches everything.
If you want light + airy photos, consider these colors: white, pastels, light pink, taupe, peach, light blue, navy, yellow, grays, tans.
Also, be sure to consider the backdrop of the locations you will be getting photos taken. For instance, if you are doing nature photos surrounded by green trees, I would stay away from the color green and opt for a lighter, neutral color. Wheres, if the backdrop is white/minimal, then you can have a little more pop of color.
Tip 3: Casual, formal, all the above?
Both! I typically recommend choosing one outfit that is slightly more formal or “dressed up” than your normal daily wear. Think attire for attending a wedding or engagement shower. Then, one outfit that’s reflective or your typical wear if you’d be going on a date night somewhere more casual. If there’s a cool story behind how you met, an activity you love doing together, cultural traditions, etc. incorporate that in your engagement photos too!
Also, one consideration is the type of wedding you’re having or the photo you’re wanting to use for save-the-dates. I recommend choosing outfits that align with your overall wedding vision, theme, or colors.
Tip 4: Accessories + props help demonstrate your personalities
Accessories can also add a fun variation to your photos and demonstrate your personalities! I always encourage couples to bring any accessories or props that they’d like to include. Hats, champagne, your favorite beverage, signs, furry friends, etc.
Do you, boo!
Above all else, my recommendation is to make sure the outfits are authentic and representative of who you are as a couple (and something you’d actually wear). And do whatever you want, truly. These are your engagement photos and I’d rather you look back on them in 50 years, knowing that’s exactly how you were, then have some curated version of yourself.
If you are still needing help, please reach out and I’d be happy to give you my honest advice 🙂
