What should I wear for my engagement shoot?

10 Tips for your engagement shoot wardrobe

The number 1 question I receive from couples is “What should I wear for my engagement shoot?” This is sometimes the first time a couple has been professionally photographed since high school and it can be very nerve-wracking! The good news is that you can’t really get it wrong, but here are some tips that can help you feel more confident in your choice!

 

Your outfit can really add a lot of personality to your photos.

Your photos will be a reflection of who you are as people and as a couple! If you wear a lot of blacks, rock it! Love big poofy skirts, go for it! If you really can’t imagine wearing anything other than jeans, that’s cool too! Your clothes should reflect your personality!

Choose clothing that you feel comfortable and good in!

That sequin dress may be the height of fashion, but I promise you if it is itchy, that will be the only thing you are thinking of! You want something that you can put on and forget. You feel comfortable in it and you know you look good. That way you can focus on your partner and having fun during your session.

Dress up a little more than you normally would

You want to feel comfortable but you don’t want to look like you just got up off the couch. Make sure everything is wrinkle and stain free. Check to see if there are any holes anywhere. I like to tell couples to pretend you are going on a nice date. That’s the average level of what you should wear.

Bring 1 to 2 outfits (at least)

I love having options! Your session will be at least an hour long. It’s really nice to be able to change up your look! If you don’t want to do a whole outfit change, you can bring accessories, coats, or other layers to change up your look. A coat and a different pair of shoes can really change a look.

Don’t wear matching outfits!

Do you normally wear outfits that look the same? No! Please don’t do this for your photos. It looks so weird! Neutrals (Navy, tan, gray, black, and white) are all perfect to pair with a pattern or brighter color.

Your clothes should make sense in the location you choose

Think about where you are having your shoot and also the time of year. If it is 10 degrees out you might not want to wear a spring dress. Likewise, you probably shouldn’t wear a scarf and peacoat on a tropical beach.

Wear something that fits and flatters

It can be uncomfortable having your picture taken. Wearing oversized clothes that don’t fit just makes it worse though. Wear something that fits and is flattering. I promise you won’t look fat in your photos. Baggy clothes will 100% make you look bigger though!

Rent an outfit or hire a stylist

At a complete loss of what to wear or hate everything you own? Rent an outfit or hire a stylist. There are so many clothing rental companies now! Rent the runway is perfect, especially if you want something a little dressier. Le Tote is another subscription option. Men’s Wearhouse is an option for the guys out there. Stitchfix is a subscription box that provides you with your own stylist (Use that link to get $25 off). Front Door Fashion is another stylist subscription box to check out too.

Professional Hair and Make-up are a must!

Your hair and make-up artist will know all the tricks to make you look your best in front of the camera. It’s also a great way to relax and let someone else worry about it before your session. Don’t be afraid of lashes either. They really help to make your eyes pop in photos. Guys should go get pampered too! A nice close shave always looks good and most men can always use some help with their eyebrows!

Don’t forget your nails!

This is important but also I’m a little nuts about it. Make sure your nails are looking great! They don’t have to be painted but chipped nail polish and broken nails can really take away from the quality of your photos. I love getting a manicure! It just feels so nice! If you can’t spring for one though, a quick file and nail polish remover can do wonders.

 

Looking for more tips or inspiration? Check out these other blog posts about engagement sessions!

Fall Engagement Session Inspo	How can my dog be a part of my wedding?	Why Should We Have an Engagement Session?