How to Dress for your Engagement Session
You’re engaged. And just like Buddy the Elf, you want to scream to the world, “I'm in love! I'm in love and I don't care who knows it!” How do you do that? Engagement Photos.
I love engagement sessions. As a photographer, it gives me a chance to break the ice with my brides and grooms, get to know them, try a variety poses to find the ones that suit them best, and help them relax in front of the camera. It really makes the photography on a wedding day a lot easier, because we have already gotten comfortable with each other!
But what do you wear? Here are some things to think about as you plan:
How will you use these photos? Save-the-dates? A guestbook? Think about what you want your wedding guests to see!
Choose outfits that reflect your personality as a couple!
I always suggest bringing more than one outfit, at least one dressier set and a more casual set.
Make sure your outfits complement each other, but avoid being too matchy-matchy.
As for color choices, think about the colors at the setting where you will be having your photos made.
Spring/Summer: Soft, pastel colors or neutrals will blend better with a flowery backdrop, while either pastel or bold, bright colors can work well in a greener setting. Different shades of the same color or neutrals with pops of color also work well. Black is usually too overpowering for a Springy backdrop, but navy paired with pastels can create a beautiful palette!
Fall: If there is a lot of red, orange, and yellow, don’t wear too much of the same colors…aim for something darker that will focus the attention of the photo on your family. Navy blue, dark green, purple, burgundy, brown, and even black can help you stand out in a colorful Fall setting! Or go with the complete opposite and wear something light-colored, like a yellow or cream! Using coordinating accents in reds, yellows, and oranges can add a nice pop of color.
Winter: Since most outdoor settings are pretty gray during the Winter, pops of any color will make you stand out!
Consider the season: Sometimes the weather can be tricky in the Spring, and it may be cooler than you expect. Avoid the heavy coats, and instead, wear light layers, like sweaters, cardigans, or button-down shirts to keep warm. You can always take the layers off right before you get in front of the camera and throw them back on between shots! Some fun Fall staples to consider: jeans, boots, flannel shirts, scarves, sweaters, jackets, and layers!
Ladies…long dresses and skirts that flow and create movement help make beautiful photos!
Think about the different poses you may be asked to try out. You might be standing, sitting, kneeling, facing the camera, turned around so that the camera can see your back… Are your clothes too short? Too low cut? Too tight? Pick the most flattering styles!
Shoes matter! Think about the venue. Will you need to walk a lot through forests or grassy areas? If so, bring comfortable shoes, or better yet, an extra pair so that you don’t get your nicer shoes dirty!
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! Bring long necklaces, fun earrings, hats, scarves, ties, and picnic blankets to sit on or wrap up in!
Avoid branding or words on your clothing (it can be distracting and get cut off depending on poses).
Do you wear glasses? Try popping out the lenses beforehand, if possible. Transition lenses in any outdoor lighting can make you look like you’re wearing sunglasses, and regular glasses often produce a glare.
Whatever you choose—be yourself! I always tell my couple that the best images are captured when you are truly engaged in what you are doing and having fun with it!
