
Your engagement session is one of the most exciting parts of the wedding planning process. Not only do you get beautiful photos to celebrate this chapter of your love story, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. One of the most common questions I get as a wedding photographer is: What should we wear for our engagement shoot? To help you look and feel your best, here are eight expert tips on what to wear for your engagement photos.
1. Pastels, Neutrals, and Cool Tones Photograph Beautifully
Soft pastels, neutral shades, and cool tones like blues, greens, and grays tend to photograph best. These colors enhance natural skin tones and work beautifully in any setting, whether you’re shooting in an open field, downtown cityscape, or a cozy café. Bold neon shades can be distracting and may not complement all skin tones.
2. Compliment Each Other, But Don’t Be Too Matchy-Matchy
While coordinating your outfits is a great idea, avoid wearing identical colors or overly matching outfits. Instead, opt for complementary colors that work well together. If your partner is wearing a navy suit, you might choose a soft blush dress. This approach allows you both to stand out while still looking cohesive as a couple.
3. Choose How Formal You Want to Be
Engagement sessions can range from casual to ultra-glam—it’s up to you! If you envision a classic and timeless look, opt for a dress and heels or a tailored suit. If you prefer something more laid-back, jeans and a cute blouse or a flowy sundress work perfectly. The most important thing is that your outfits reflect your personalities and feel authentic to your relationship.
4. Go For Timeless Over Trendsetting
Your engagement photos will be cherished for years to come, so opt for timeless pieces rather than following fleeting fashion trends. A little black dress, a crisp white shirt, or a well-fitted blazer never go out of style. Avoid overly trendy pieces that might look dated in a few years (looking at you, tiny sunglasses and chunky dad sneakers!). At the end of the day, do what speaks to you. I know just know how much my Mom regrets her pager in her photos.
5. Have Hair and Makeup on Point (Yes, Do Your Bridal Makeup Trial!)
Your engagement session is a great excuse to book your bridal makeup trial! Professional hair and makeup not only help you look polished, but they also give you a confidence boost in front of the camera. Plus, you get to see how your wedding makeup photographs before the big day. If a trial isn’t in the budget, consider having your makeup professionally done for the shoot—it’s worth it!
6. Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Running late to your engagement session can add unnecessary stress, and no one wants to start a shoot feeling flustered. Traffic, hair and makeup, outfit changes, and parking can all take longer than expected. Plan to be ready at least an hour before your session starts so you can relax and ease into the experience.
7. Start with a Quick Cocktail Hour
If you’re feeling nervous about being in front of the camera, consider having a quick cocktail with your fiancé before your session. Whether it’s a glass of wine at home or a pre-shoot meet-up with your photographer at a local bar or cafe, a little sip can help you feel more relaxed and natural in front of the lens. Sometimes opting for a cup of coffee just to get to know each other can work wonders!
8. HAVE FUN & Be Yourself
Above all, remember that your engagement session is about celebrating you as a couple. Don’t stress too much about every little detail—just have fun, be yourself, and enjoy the moment. The best photos come from genuine laughter, sweet moments, and natural interactions, so let your love shine through!
Bonus Tip: Bring an Extra Outfit
If you’re torn between two looks, bring a second outfit! Many engagement sessions include an outfit change, allowing you to have a mix of dressy and casual photos. This gives variety to your gallery and lets you showcase different aspects of your style.
Final Thoughts
Your engagement photos should reflect your love story, personalities, and style. By following these tips, you’ll not only look amazing but also feel confident and comfortable throughout the session. If you’re still unsure about what to wear for your engagement photos, don’t hesitate to reach out to your photographer for guidance—we’re always happy to help!
Looking for tips on what to wear for you engagement photos? General photography questions? Check out my other blog posts or contact me to start planning your perfect engagement session!
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