5 Tips on What to Wear to Your Engagement Photoshoot
Engagement photos have become a popular way to document those special months before wedded bliss. And although an engagement photo session is more casual than wedding-day photos, couples take the opportunity just as seriously. Not only because the photos become a cherished memory (and can also be used on save-the-dates, wedding welcome tables, etc.), but because an engagement photo session is the perfect way to get to know the photographer and get comfortable in front of the camera.
If you’re thinking about snuggling up to your S.O. for a photoshoot, there’s one thing you might not have thought about yet, but should start planning as soon as possible.
What to wear!
Like most couples, your attire is probably not the first thing on your mind, but it plays an important role. Not planning out what you’ll both wear ahead of time will leave you scrambling for the perfect outfit, and you don’t need that kind of stress before you’re about to strut your stuff in front of the camera.
Below, you’ll find tips on what kind of outfit to put together for your engagement photo session. What you wear and how you and your partner complement each other makes a difference, so keep reading!
1 – Consider the Season
It might seem like common sense, but it’s worth mentioning anyway. Keep in mind the weather when you plan your outfits, especially during unpredictable seasons like spring (Will it rain? Snow? Who knows!)
Play it safe by checking the weather forecast a day before your photoshoot and also the morning of, just in case. If you’re not sure what kinds of outfits work well in the current season, just ask your photographer. He or she can also suggest the best spots to take photos during the current season. The setting will also determine what kind of outfit to wear (if you’re inside, you might not need a jacket, for example), so weave the season and setting into your consideration.
2 – Wear Something You Feel Confident In
Clothes allow us to express our personalities and can boost our confidence when we wear outfits that feel “so me.” Your engagement photoshoot is an opportunity to express yourself and your relationship, so keep that in mind when you look through your closet.
Ask yourself what you feel confident and comfortable in. Pick out your favourite pieces. Ask your fiancé what they love seeing you wear. Maybe it’s a pair of jeans and a vintage tee or a tank top and flowing skirt. What feels like you?
It’s also important to pick out pieces that have a more classic/timeless factor. If you want to look back on your photos ten years from now and not cringe, it’s best to forgo the fly-by-night trends. Consider basic pieces (you can always accessorise) that stand the test of time.
3 – Wear Something Comfortable
You’ll be up and down, walking, sitting, maybe even jumping at your engagement session, so comfortable clothes are key. Wear pieces that are easy to move in. Check those straps (will you need to constantly adjust?), that tie (is it going to fly in your face?), and those jeans (too tight?).
You’ll also want to wear comfortable shoes. Those heels might look stunning, but your feet won’t feel so stellar once you’ve been walking and standing around in them for awhile. If you can’t fathom not wearing heels, bring a pair of flats to wear between photo locations and just in case a nasty blister pops up or your feet just can’t take the heels anymore. Better to be safe than sorry.
4 – Wear Outfits That Complement Each Other
I recommend neutral colours and earth tones like white, tan, cream, black, and grey, as they are easy to match, fit most settings, and look great on everyone.
If you want to add some colour, focus on one (your blue bracelet to match the blue in his shirt) or consider a play on pattern (your blue striped blouse to complement his blue socks). Just be careful of clashing colours and patterns. If you’re worried about a wardrobe malfunction, stick with the plain neutrals and you’ll be golden.
5 – Bring Two Outfits
Yes, it’s okay to change your outfit during the photoshoot. Not only will it give you variety, but having two outfits on site can help alleviate questions like, “Should I go more casual or elegant?” and “Which outfit will look better at the scene?”
Also, if you’ve picked out a couple of outfits, but aren’t sure which one will look best on camera, bring both and ask the photographer for his or her opinion. Having a few options is always better than showing up in one outfit only to realise it wasn’t the best choice.
Don’t think about your outfit too much, however. What you wear to an engagement session isn’t life or death, after all. The more you stress about it, the less likely you’ll want to go through with it. Keep it low-key. When you’re comfortable, confident, and prepared, it will show through your photos, so have fun!
Check out more of my helpful tips and resources for your wedding day. Or if there’s something I haven’t covered, get in touch and ask away!
