What To Wear For Your Engagement Photos
When my husband and I got our engagement photos done (before I became a photographer), I stressed for WEEKS leading up to our shoot over what to wear. I didn’t know what colors would look good. I didn’t know how “match-y” we should be. I really didn’t know anything, if we’re being honest. Once I started my photography career, I quickly began to figure out what “worked” in front of the camera. Since then, I have discovered that helping my clients with their outfits is one of my favorite things to do!
Here are a few of my favorite tips when it comes to choosing outfits for your engagement or couples photo session.
Neutral Colors
I have found that neutral colors go with pretty much any backdrop. They also just look better with my style of editing (earthy, warm tones). Neutral colors are super easy to coordinate with each other, too, which makes putting together outfits a breeze. One thing that I really love about neutrals is that they don’t distract from the focal point of the photo. Bright colors are great (no shade on my hot pink lovers out there), but they have a tendency to “pop” in photos, which can be distracting and draw attention away from the main attraction: you and your significant other.
2. Comfort
This is important!!!! Make sure you are comfortable in whatever you choose to wear. I personally incorporate a lot of movement in my photos, so I like to tell my couples to wear something that they can move around in without risking a wardrobe malfuction.
And when I say “comfortable” I don’t just mean physical comfort. I’m talking confidence as well. Wear something that FEELS LIKE YOU! When you are feeling confident and beautiful (or handsome, guys), it will show in your photos.
3. Don’t “match”. Coordinate!
Don’t stress about being matchy-matchy with your significant other! Choose colors that compliment each other instead of perfectly matching. I actually prefer the look of outfits between significant others that look more “precariously thrown together” over ones that are meticulously color matched.
Here are some of my favorite color combos:
cremes/whites, browns
sage/army green and beige
rusty orange and tan
white and blue denim
4. The Truth About Patterns
Don’t worry, I’m not going to tell you that patterns are a no-go. I actually love incorporating patterns and textures into photos. But I do have some advice on the matter!
If one person is wearing a pattern, the other should stick to a solid to eliminate the risk of clashing.
Smaller/subtle patterns are less overwhelming and distracting.
my favorite patterns:
dainty florals
gingham
flannel (in the fall and winter)
my favorite textures:
denim jackets
corduroy
chunky knit sweaters
5. Accessorizing
Using accessories is one of the coolest ways to express yourself, and a killer way to spice up any outfit. Beware of over-accessorizing of course, as it can lead to distractions in your photos. I typically lean toward minimal or dainty jewelry pieces to keep the focus on you (and the engagement ring, of course). One of my favorite forms of accessorizing lately has been spicing up a neutral outfit with cool booties or a trendy hat.
BONUS TIP: bring a trendy hat or a jacket with you during your session. You can pop these on and off during the session and BOOM, bonus outfit without doing a full outfit change!
More Outfit Inspo:
