What to Wear for Engagement Photos
Yasss you’ve gotten engaged and are well on your way to the next chapter. But first, you want to get some nice photos for your wedding website, save the dates … just to celebrate this occasion! Engagement photos are the perfect way to warm up to getting your photos taken and feel comfortable and trusting with your photographer before the day. But now let’s get to the point, what should you wear? Choosing outfits on a regular day can sometimes be stressful, but have no fear - I’m sharing the tips I give to all my couples when choosing outfits for engagement photos.
These two wore colours that stood out against the lush green scenery
1. First, wear what feels like you! the key is comfy clothing. If you feel uncomfortable, it shows on camera. Now comfy doesn’t mean casual - for some, they’re all in for dressy outfits and suits. for others, a cute jeans, dress and flats is their vibe.
2. Don’t feel pressured to dress up or wear anything you don’t like. Want to rock shorts and be barefoot? DO IT. But if you’d like to dress up, flowy dresses and skirts are always a win for the ladies and always look polished.
3. An engagement session is the perfect time to experiment wedding looks with your local makeup artist & hairdresser. You’ll get to see how your makeup photographs - if it’s too heavy or just right. Also, how great is it that you didn't have to stress with getting yourself ready!? win.
4. Compliment each other, don’t match. If you’re in a white or cream dress, you might put your partner in a cream or navy shirt with tan pants. If you’re wearing a light pink dress, let him rock a white shirt and dark maroon pants.
5. Generally avoid very bright colours, clothing with logos and large prints. It’s unflattering to the eye, however… bright colours can be well done in certain instances. Where your location is very muted, one person wearing a bright colour can bring life into the picture. Have a look at my recent bride-to-be who wore a bright red dress below!
6. Consider your environment. Living in the Caribbean, it is HOT. Generally long sleeves and silk dresses will show sweat very quickly. I highly recommend wearing clothes made of breathable fabrics and flowy outfits that can give some breeze. If it’s a cozy couples session indoors, you can throw on something cozier - or dress to the nines if we’re taking photos at a fancy hotel. On that note, always prepare for the unexpected and have a backup shirt and outfit.
7. I’ll start by saying that you are BEAUTIFUL and you are going to look incredible for your engagement photos!! But I know how easy it is for each of us to have our body flaws, myself included. If there is something that you feel self-conscious about, think of outfits you have that make you feel your best and go with something similar - now isn’t the time to try an outfit you aren’t 100% in love with. Confidence is everything my friends!
8. Guys, take your phone and wallet out your pockets! Also, if either of you have long hair, make sure to remove your hair tie from your wrist.
When in doubt, whites and neutrals never fail!
A few extra tips
Here’s a few things I always recommend bringing to your shoot:
- An extra shirt or outfit incase of any unexpected issue
- flats to walk around between locations, especially if it’s a rugged outdoor one
- Bug spray, because the last thing we want is to be bothered by them!
- A rug/blanket for sitting in the ground, if you’re not wanting to risk your outfit!
- Touch up makeup, blotting paper
- Water, a cooler full of drinks… whatever will keep you cool and happy!
I hope you’ll find these useful for your own engagement photos. Now for the MOST IMPORTANT TIP - remember to have FUN!! It’s about you and your partner enjoying a few hours together, laughing, hugging and starting the journey into the next chapter.
Don’t stress, I’ll handle the epic photos!
