Planning your engagement session is exciting, but one of the biggest questions couples ask is, "What do we wear?" As a professional wedding and engagement photographer of over 10 years, I’ve put together this guide to help you plan the perfect outfits. The right clothing choices can make all the difference in creating timeless, stunning engagement photos you’ll cherish forever.
1. Coordinate Without Matching
Instead of wearing identical outfits, opt for complementary colors and textures. Soft, neutral tones or classic color palettes work well in any setting. Think about how your outfits will look together rather than trying to match exactly.
2. Choose Timeless Over Trendy
Engagement photos are meant to be cherished for years, so opt for classic pieces that won’t go out of style. Avoid overly trendy patterns or loud prints that may distract from the emotion of the photos.
3. Consider the Season and Location
Your outfits should align with the season and the location of your engagement shoot. For example:
Spring/Summer: Light fabrics, pastels, and florals
Fall: Earthy tones, cozy layers, and boots
Winter: Elegant coats, scarves, and deep jewel tones
4. Dress for Comfort and Confidence
Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident. If you’re constantly adjusting your clothes or feeling self-conscious, it will show in your photos. Flowy dresses, well-fitted jeans, and tailored shirts are great options.
5. Add Layers and Accessories
Layers add depth and variety to your photos. Consider bringing a stylish jacket, a hat, or a statement necklace to switch up your look without a full outfit change.
6. Avoid Distracting Logos and Graphics
Solid colors, subtle patterns, and textures photograph beautifully, while large logos and graphic prints can be distracting. Stick to classic, simple designs for a more polished look.
7. Dress for Golden Hour
If your engagement session is during golden hour (the hour before sunset), warm tones and soft fabrics complement the natural lighting beautifully.
8. Bring a Second Outfit
Many engagement sessions allow for a quick outfit change. Consider bringing one dressy outfit and one casual look to give your photos more variety.
9. Coordinate Footwear with the Location
If your session includes walking through a park, beach, or downtown streets, wear shoes that fit the terrain while keeping your style in mind.
10. Be Yourself!
Most importantly, wear something that reflects your personality as a couple. Your engagement photos should showcase your love story, so choose outfits that feel authentic to you.
By following these tips, you'll be sure to feel confident and look amazing in your engagement photos. If you're looking for an experienced engagement photographer in Lincoln, Nebraska, I’d love to capture this special moment for you. Contact me today to book your session!