Engagement Photo Outfit Tips
When you’re gearing up for engagement photos, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what to wear. Your outfits not only help set the tone for your photos, but they also reflect your personal style as a couple. Whether you’re going for a casual, relaxed vibe or a more formal look, choosing the right outfits can make all the difference in how your engagement photos turn out. As an experienced wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right clothing choices can elevate a session, making it timeless and unforgettable.
In this post, we’ll explore the top engagement photo outfit tips to help you look and feel your best.
Gone are the days of wearing identical outfits for your engagement photos. Instead, focus on coordinating your looks so that they complement each other. Think about the colors, textures, and styles that reflect both of your personalities. If one of you is wearing a patterned outfit, the other might want to go for a solid color to avoid clashing.
Pro Tip: Choose a color palette (like soft pastels, neutral tones, or bold jewel colors) and let each person’s outfit fall within that range. This ensures you both look cohesive without looking too “matchy.”
While looking stylish is important, feeling comfortable is even more essential. If you’re not comfortable in your outfit, it’ll show in your photos. Choose outfits that you can move and pose in freely.
For women, this might mean avoiding overly tight dresses or shoes that aren’t easy to walk in. For men, consider breathable fabrics and a well-fitted shirt that doesn’t restrict movement.
Pro Tip: Bring along an extra pair of shoes for walking between locations, especially if your photoshoot takes place outdoors!
Your engagement photos are a celebration of your relationship, so your outfits should reflect who you are as a couple. If you’re both into a more relaxed vibe, opt for casual clothing like jeans and a nice top. If you’re a couple that enjoys dressing up, go for something more formal, like a gown for her and a well-tailored suit for him.
Pro Tip: The outfits you choose should also reflect the vibe of the location. A romantic, historic venue may call for more elegant attire, while a laid-back beach session might lend itself to casual, breezy looks.
While patterns can add visual interest, they can also distract from the subjects of the photo—you and your partner! Avoid overly bold prints, logos, and clothing with large graphics. Solid colors or subtle patterns tend to photograph better and keep the focus where it should be: on the connection between you two.
Pro Tip: If you want to add a little visual interest, think about incorporating textures like lace, denim, or knits. These can add depth to your look without overwhelming the photo.
The time of year and the location of your engagement shoot should heavily influence your outfit choices. If you’re shooting in the fall, cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots can add warmth and texture to your look. For a summer shoot, light fabrics like linen or cotton will keep you cool while still looking stylish.
Pro Tip: Outdoor locations like parks or gardens work wonderfully with more earthy, natural colors, while urban settings may benefit from a more modern, trendy look.
If you want to have more variety in your photos, consider bringing a second outfit. This can be a more casual option or a completely different style, depending on the vibe you’re going for. Changing outfits between locations can give your photos a dynamic and fresh feel.
Pro Tip: Keep your second outfit in mind when planning your shoot schedule—changing into a different look can take some time, and you don’t want to feel rushed during your session.
Your engagement photos are an investment in your memories, so it’s important to choose outfits that will help you look your best. By coordinating your looks, focusing on comfort, and choosing styles that reflect your personality, you’ll create timeless images that truly capture the essence of your relationship.
As a wedding photographer, I always recommend couples take the time to plan their outfits in advance. When you feel confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing, that confidence shines through in your photos. So, take these tips to heart, and get ready to create beautiful, lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever.
Looking for a wedding photographer who can help bring your vision to life? Contact me today to book your engagement session and start planning for beautiful, timeless photos that capture the essence of your love!
Wedding and Elopement photographer serving faith-filled couples throughout Southern California.
"All things work together for those who love God" Romans 8:28
Shilo + Hannah’s Fall Wedding at Rancho Guejito Vineyard