What to Wear for an Engagement Shoot

Couples are often asking me about what to wear for an engagement shoot. As a Colorado wedding photographer with over fifteen years of experience, I have some good tips. I hope this helps you simplify and find the right look for you. If you just can’t seem to figure it out, send me a message and I’ll help talk you through it. I’m here for you.

My most important tip is to feel comfortable and good in what you decide to wear. If you are uncomfortable or don’t feel good it is much harder to look relaxed and enjoy your photo session. 

I have talked with couples who have spent days shopping or ordered dozens of outfits online and still feel overwhelmed and unsure. It doesn’t have to be so complicated, especially when you have some strategies to guide you.

1. Coordinate, but Don’t Match

Choose colors and styles that complement each other without being identical.
Consider: earth tones / jewel tones / warm tones / neutrals and accents / textured fabrics.

2. Plan a Cohesive Color Palette

Soft neutrals and muted tones photograph beautifully:

Cream, beige, tan
Dusty blue, sage, slate
Charcoal, navy, black
Blush, rust, muted earth tones

Avoid neons or anything overly bright, because they reflect on to your skin. Red and magenta can be tricky as well.


3. Choose Outfits That Feel Like “You”

Confidence shows on camera.

If you’re not a dress person, don’t wear one. If you love suits or cozy sweaters, go for it.
On the flip side, if you don’t like the way your arms look in photos, wear something with sleeves. If you want to show off a tattoo make sure you can easily see it. 


4. Bring Two Looks

Most couples choose:
One dressy: flowing dress / suit jacket / crisp shirt
One casual: Jeans + sweater / sundress / boots

It gives variety and mood changes in your gallery.
I recommend a full change, but if you prefer you could just change your top.
Depending on your location, keep in mind you may need to change in your car. DO not bring more than two looks or the time it takes to change could cut too much into the photography time.

5. Fabrics with Movement

Clothing that can catch the wind looks gorgeous:

Flowy dresses
Skirts
Scarves
Open cardigans

They create natural motion in photos.

6. Avoid Distracting Patterns

Small prints, words, logos, and busy patterns can distort on camera.
Solid colors, subtle textures (linen, knits, denim), or large, simple patterns are best.

7. Dress for the Setting

Nature / fields work best with earthy tones, flowy clothes

Urban: bold neutrals, sleek silhouettes
Beach: soft neutrals, lightweight fabrics
Forest: jewel tones, cozy layers

Look like you belong in the environment.

Also, consider the weather. Areas on mountains can be very windy or can get very cold without notice. Ask me about tips for a winter engagement session.

8. Layer Up

Layers add visual interest and options:

Jackets, shawls, cardigans
Hats
Jewelry 

You can remove layers mid-session for more variety.

9. Shoes Matter

Choose shoes that fit the vibe and the location
If we are on rocky ground or have to walk to get to a prime location bring walking shoes. Sneakers can help you get around and then you can easily change to heels or preferred shoes.

10. Details and prep

Steam/iron clothes. This is so important. Wrinkles show up in photos and can be difficult to get rid of in post. Wrinkles look messy and distract from the emotion and joy.

Nails tidy (especially for ring close-ups)
Hair neatly styled
Minimal, natural makeup looks great in photos

For brides to be: Consider having your hair and makeup done professionally. This could be a great day to schedule a makeup and hair trial with the stylist you are using on your wedding day. I will also be taking close ups of your gorgeous ring on your finger. Why not treat yourself to a manicure. These ideas are absolutely not necessary, but I like to recommend them because how often do you have professional photos taken? Why not take advantage of this special time in your life and make yourself feel pampered and beautiful.


11. Add in Some Fun

Bring bikes, a picnic, a vintage car, books, champagne to spray

Sports Jerseys / college shirts / cowboy hats
These can be added in for 3-5 minutes of the shoot for a fun way to show off something that is important to the two of you.

12. Check Out samples

A great way to get ideas and see what you like or do not like in photos is to do some research and pinning. Check out some wardrobe ideas on Pinterest



13. What else should you bring with you?

You don’t need to bring anything, but you may want to bring with you:

• picnic blanket (something with a very simple, neutral color) for some seated photos
• water bottle
• chapstick
• small mints (not gum)
• touch up makeup
• a hair brush (sometimes it can get windy)
• a pair of sneakers. If we have to do a little hiking to get to scenic spots and you plan on wearing heels, a set of sneakers could really help. You can throw everything in a backpack or duffle and I can hold your bag while we shoot.
• for winter shoots: consider bringing a thermos of hot tea or coffee to help you stay warm.

14. Bring your Dog

Your dog is a part of your family and if it isn’t too difficult, it can be really fun to include them in your photo shoot. It does take a little extra planning. Check out my post for tips on bringing a dog.

Need more tips for planning? Check out my Guide: How to Plan Your Colorado Engagement Photography Session

Ready to book your photo session? Contact me today.