What Should I Wear for My Engagement Photos? [7 Tips]
You’ve chosen a wedding photographer and you’ve decided where and when you’re taking your engagement photos. All that’s left to do is figure out what you’ll wear.
Couples typically take engagement photos not only to get comfortable with their photographer, but also because they want to use the photos for save the dates and invitations. A lot of people will see the photos, so you want them to look good. You also don’t want to look back on the photos years from now and curse yourself for wearing that outfit.
A lot of couples come to me for advice on choosing the perfect outfit. After years of photographing engagements and weddings, I’ll provide my carefully curated engagement photo outfit tips. This valuable guidance will ensure you and your partner look and feel your best during this special session.
When you’re done reading, it’ll be time to go thrifting, shopping your closet, or perusing Pinterest for inspiration!
7 Tips for Choosing Your Engagement Photo Outfits
Tip #1: Dress timeless, not trendy
You want to look at your engagement photos down the line – 10, 20, 50 years – and still love them. You don’t want to question why you chose that outfit.
For your engagement photos, choose classic, simple basics that stand the test of time versus the latest piece of fast fashion. You don’t want to wear something that’s trendy right now only for it to look ridiculous next week.
Neutral or pastel colors that complement the skin tone are a good choice. Opt for pieces that fit well and give you a nice silhouette. Try not to overdo it with accessories.
This advice is also something to consider if you want to wear a sexy, revealing outfit. Your family will likely be seeing these photos. Will you be comfortable with them seeing you in that outfit style? If not, you could decide to do two outfits and only use one set of photos for favors and invites. The same goes for if you’d really like to wear a trendy outfit. Consider doing one trendy outfit and one more classic outfit.
Tip #2: Don’t blend in with your background
Think about where you’re having your photos taken. Are you taking pictures in the snow? Avoid wearing white. Are you taking photos in the woods? Brown and green will make you blend in with the trees.
Try not to either clash with the background or wear colors that’ll make you disappear. If you need advice on this, your photographer can definitely help recommend some color palettes.
Tip #3: Coordinate with your partner
Coordinate, don’t match. If you’re wearing red, your partner should avoid wearing the same shade of red. When you do this, it can be hard to differentiate between silhouettes. In the photos, we don’t know where your body ends and your partner’s begins.
Instead, choose complementary colors. For instance, add contrast by wearing different shades of blue. Consider having one partner wear a shade of blue while the other wears a white and blue striped button-down.
Tip #4: Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable
I can’t stress this enough: Wear clothes that fit you well and make you feel comfortable. If you don’t love how your body feels in your outfit, it can show in the photos.
Anything too tight or too short should also be avoided. You may be sitting in grass or doing poses you’re not used to; clothing that’s too tight might make you feel uncomfortable in these poses. Similarly, finding flattering poses in a tight dress may be a challenge.
Consider where you’ll be taking photos, too. If you’re navigating wet, loose ground or rocky terrain, heels aren’t a great idea (no matter how cute they look). If you’re taking photos in the dead of winter, you don’t have to wear a puffy coat and scarf, but at least wear a layer or two. Practicality has its place.
Tip #5: Steer clear of distracting logos and patterns
That t-shirt you love with a giant logo front and center is great, but it might not be the best shirt to wear for your engagement photo session. Large logos can distract from the purpose of the photo: to see the love and joy between you and your partner.
Same goes for words on your clothing or distracting patterns. Patterns are fine (as long as they complement your partner’s outfit) but be mindful of what it looks like up close and far away. For example, tiny patterns can cause a moiré effect when photographed. The pixels in the photograph merge and can make the pattern look wavy, like an optical illusion. As another example, I once photographed a man who had orchids on his shirt but when you zoomed out, the tiny plants looked like a phallic symbol…
Tip #6: Don’t be afraid to wear white
You might think white is reserved for the wedding day, but it’s totally not! Don’t be afraid to get in the bride zone and wear something long, white, and flowy. It photographs beautifully and makes you look very bridal. It’s also lovely if your future spouse wears black for a nice take on the traditional black and white wedding colors.
Tip #7: Don’t overdo it
You want these photos to reflect you, your partner, and your love, so choose an outfit that allows you to be yourself. You don’t have to look like models with your hair and makeup done. You don’t have to wear a formal gown and tuxedo.
If it’s something you’d never feel comfortable wearing, don’t wear it for your engagement shoot. If you never wear makeup, skip the full contour, fake eyelashes, and the bold red lip (unless a glam, formal engagement photoshoot is what you’re after).
Make sure you look like you.
Get Engagement Photos You Love
Choosing the perfect outfits for your engagement photoshoot is a crucial aspect of creating lasting and meaningful memories.
Remember to choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident. Choose something that makes you feel like yourself. Stray away from distracting patterns and logos, and make sure your outfit complements your partner’s.
By following these engagement photo outfit tips, you'll be well-prepared to create beautiful and authentic images that reflect your unique love story for years to come.
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