As a wedding photographer I get asked this question quite allot so I thought it would be a great idea to give a few easy pointers. I wish I could say "don't worry about it" to make this an easy process, but an outfit can make or break the vibe of the shoot! Luckily it is a fairly easy conundrum to figure out so that you do not have to loose sleep over it before the big day!
Take your surroundings into account!
Natural setting - If the engagement shoot is going to take place in a nature setting like the beach or outdoors in a field, etc then soft natural colors will work best. a Leopard print top in tall long grass is usually a bad idea as I do not want you to to blend into the background or be mistaken for a tiger.;)
Urban shoot - If the engagement shoot is going to be in a busy city or street setting than you can go for a more vibrant outfit. If you love bright colors than this is your chance to dust off those disco glitter pants or wear your brightest show stopper dress.
Blend in with your partner
While planning your outfit be sure to color match with your partner. You can go for complimentary colors or maybe an item here and there that matches in color like a tie that matches your partners dress. Wear clothes that are the same level of “dressyness,” and wear similar shades that compliment each other. Choose clothes that look best on you. For example, in the winter, the following colors look great together: navy, gray, maroon, cream/khaki. In the summer, the following colors look great together: white, cream/khaki, light blue.
Choose colors that compliment your skin tone: For example, if you have light skin, white clothing can wash out your complexion in photographs. If you have black hair, a navy shirt or jacket might not look the best.
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable!
The best way to get those natural in the moment shots is when the couple feels comfortable, so wear something that fits in with YOUR style and that makes you feel confident! When you show the photos to your friends you want them to be like "this is totally you guys".
A few do's and dont's for the girls:
- a Flowy dress that moves with every little whistle of the wind is always a great choice as it photographs beautifully when we get into the fun movement and dancing poses.
- If you have decided on heels bring an extra pair of comfortable shoes.
- Bring along a jacket, hat and a few retro accessories to change up your look.
- If your budget allows it, treat yourself to a professional make up artist and hairstylist, it really does make a difference. I have a few contact numbers I can pass along.
- Or ... schedule your wedding trail make-up on the same day as the shoot - and you will look great on each photograph.
- Do not try a new hair style or new make up style the day of your shoot, you want your engagement photos to reflect who you are and you want to feel as comfortable as possible!
- If you do not want to get dressed up in a cocktail dress that is fine, jeans and a t-shirt also works very well for a cute couple session.
a Few do's and dont's for the Guy's:
- a Stylish suited semi-formal look always looks good on photos but if you want a more laid back look, jeans with with stylish sneakers or shoes can work just as great.
- Don't wear a t-shirt with a printed design on it.
- Fitted jackets and coats look much better than wide, boxy unfitted ones.
- If your fiancee is wearing a dress then go the extra mile and match her level of stylishness.
- Do not try a new hair style the day of your shoot, you want your engagement photos to reflect who you are and you want to feel as comfortable as possible!
Depending on the length of your engagement session, I would recommend 1 or 2 outfits. If there is time for 2 outfits, I would recommend starting the photo session wearing formal clothes, and then changing into more casual clothes (or vice versa).
Your engagement photos will be used for many years to come, in photo albums, save the date, cards and possibly hang on your wall, so by taking the extra moment to ensure you get the best photos will be priceless in the long run. If you are still unsure you can always send me a message prior to the shoot with photos of different outfit ideas, I am here to help you get the best possible photos!:)
For my engagement photography package rates please click on this link - Engagement photography
