Engagement season is just beginning, which means that it’s time to start planning what to wear for your engagement photos! Even as a wedding photographer myself, this is always hard when we’re prepping for our own annual family photos. Even though I know what looks best on camera and what coordinates well together without being too matchy matchy, I get it, it’s still nerve wrecking!
Don’t fear, friends! We’re here to give you the inside scoop to help you choose outfits that not only look amazing on camera, but you also feel comfortable in, give off the vibe that matches both of your personalities and the location we’re shooting at!
Here are a few things to consider for what to wear for your engagement photos: color palette, texture, movement and environment! I also have a few bonus tips at the end like how to wear casual outfits the right way, and what guys should wear for engagement photos!
Color
I always suggest solid colors! This ensures there’s nothing distracting in your engagement photos like stripes, graphics, or patterns larger than your fist. If you want to choose something with a pattern, just make sure that it’s something like small flowers, plaid or even some fun polka dots!
Texture
Texture is my absolute favorite way to bring interest to photos through your outfits (other than your smiling faces!) Texture helps to bring a “pattern” to solid colors without bringing in other distracting colors. Some examples are lace, chiffon, pleats, tulle and chunky knits! When choosing what to wear for your engagement photos, be sure to keep this particular tip in mind.
Movement
A lot of times I’ll ask my couples to twirl, dance, walk, run or lift for different poses, and when the bride has on a long flowy dress or skirt and it blows around in the wind, it creates magazine worthy images! This can also be done when your hair is left down, with long earrings, tops with bell sleeves or anything with fringe on it! There’s nothing better than incorporating movement into outfits to make your images feel alive
Environment
When choosing outfits for your engagement photos, you need to consider the season that you’re in and the type of location that you choose. If you’re at an upscale location like a museum or in the city, dressing up to the nines could look very classy and chic. If you’re at the beach or a local park, go for a linen or chiffon dress and something more casual. If it’s cold outside, one of your outfits could include fitted coats and a hat. If it’s summer, get out the shorter sundress, wedges and untucked button down!
BONUS Tip! How To Do Casual The Right Way
A lot of our couples choose to do one casual outfit, and one nicer outfit. This is a great way to add variety to your photos in one session! However, casual does not mean your Sunday comfy’s, sneakers or wrinkly shirts! Make sure your outfits are still tailored and clean! This can mean jeans with a tucked in lace top for the ladies. Or for guys, an UntuckIt button down with jeans and loafers.
leave a comment