Planning the Perfect Engagement Outfits Made Easy
Lost on what to wear for your engagement photos? Here are some tips to help you choose outfits that reflect your personality while complementing the location and overall vibe. The key? Stay true to your style while making intentional choices that elevate your photos.
Bringing Your Personal Style to Your Session
One of my favorite things about photographing engagement sessions is seeing each couple’s unique style come to life. Everyone is different, and it’s important to bring your personal style into your shoot.
Why? Because you want to feel like yourself when you look at these photos. The way you move in a flowing dress versus ripped-up jeans and a denim jacket is totally different. Him in chinos and a T-shirt versus dress pants and a button-up will change the entire vibe of your photos.
The more thought you put into your outfit selections, the more unique and authentic your photos will feel.
Things to Consider When Choosing Your Outfit
Comfort and Location Matter
Before picking out what to wear, think about the location and conditions of your engagement session. Will you be walking on uneven terrain? Will it be hot?
I love capturing natural, candid moments, which sometimes means climbing, sitting, or squeezing into unique spots to get the perfect shot. If you’re adventurous, kicking off your sandals and scrambling up rocky lakeshores might be no problem. But if your style leans more urban, choose footwear that keeps you comfortable while still looking great. The goal is to look amazing and feel good throughout your session.
Weather Considerations
If it’s the middle of summer and the sun is blazing, you’re going to sweat. Choose colours that help conceal sweat marks. Dresses are great for keeping your legs cool.
If it’s chilly, opt for stylish jackets that are softer and easier to move in. Layers not only keep you warm but add dimension to your outfit.
A little preparation goes a long way in making sure you’re comfortable in any weather conditions.
Bring a Bag for Your Shoes
If you’re wearing dress shoes or heels for part of the session, bring a small bag to carry them in. This way, you can switch between comfortable walking shoes and your nice footwear without worrying about ruining them on rough terrain. Having the option to change quickly makes it easier to explore locations without sacrificing style.
Colours and Patterns That Work Best
Colours That Pop in Photos
Some colours just photograph better than others. My go-to favorites:
Jewel tones – Deep greens, blues, and bold patterns stand out beautifully in photos.
Earthy neutrals – Tans, rusts, and muted warm tones can be stunning in natural settings.
Classic blacks and whites – Clean and timeless, these always look great in urban settings.
Complimenting the Scenery
Consider how your outfits will interact with the background.
If we’re shooting in front of an old sandstone building, wearing beige might make you blend in too much. Instead, opt for a contrasting colour that complements the setting—like deep green, navy, or warm rust tones—to help you stand out in the best way.
Four Things That Don’t Photograph Well
Over the years, I’ve learned that certain elements can be distracting or unflattering in photos. Here’s what to avoid:
Neon Colours – These overpower the image and can create unnatural colour casts on your skin. Neon is best saved for music festivals.
Busy, Tight Patterns – Tiny, high-contrast patterns can create an optical illusion, distracting from you and your partner.
Stiff or Restrictive Clothing – Movement is key. Clothes that don’t breathe or stretch can look awkward and uncomfortable. Opt for fabrics that allow you to move naturally.
Bright Red and Orange – These tones can cast unflattering colours onto your skin, making necks and faces look red or orange. If you love red, go for a deeper, richer tone.
Are We Doing a Theme?
Do we have a specific vibe in mind? Adding a theme can make your session extra personal and creative. Whether it’s a retro-inspired shoot, a moody cinematic moment, or something totally unique, styling and setting play a huge role in bringing the vision to life.
I’m always dreaming up fresh ideas like:
A ’70s-inspired scene with wood-paneled walls, oversized glasses, and modern nostalgia-inspired outfits.
A vintage motorbike adventure—two highway cuties cruising into the sunset.
A contrast-heavy setup—a beautifully styled backdrop placed in an unexpected location to create a surreal and striking look.
If you have a theme in mind or want help crafting one, let’s make it happen. The more intentional we get with styling and details, the more your photos will feel like art.
Finishing Touches: A Quick Styling Checklist
Accessories – Keep it simple
Hair and Makeup Trial – If you’re using a professional, this is a great time to test your wedding look
Nails – Your hands will be in a lot of photos, so keep them looking polished
Snack Before the Shoot – Stay energized, but avoid foods that could stain your teeth or tongue
Wear Cool Socks – White socks with black shoes? A no-go
Avoid Too Much Hairspray – Soft, flowing hair looks best in photos
Don’t Match—Just Compliment – Outfits should coordinate without looking like a uniform
Pack Light for Touch-Ups – Bring a small, easy-to-carry touch-up kit
Think of It as a Date – Have fun, be romantic, and enjoy the experience
Bonus tip: Rent a vintage car for an extra cool factor.
Making the Most of Your Engagement Session
At the end of the day, the best photos happen when you’re comfortable, confident, and having fun with your partner.
Be flirty. Be touchy. Keep things soft, sweet, and romantic. Get ready for forehead kisses, hand-holding, twirls, inside jokes, and spontaneous moments.
This isn’t just a photo shoot—it’s an experience you’ll always remember.
Above: Playing up the red in her kick ass Led Zepplin t shirt with the red walls and her flowing red locks ties this sweet moment together perfectly. Without knowing it your eyes are like “holy wow that’s sweet”. Also the urban vibe is perfectly complimented with their casual style.
Above // Mid engagement shoot it started to rain and luckily Cheryl had a softer style denim shirt over her t and wade had a deep jewel tone baseball t. They pop out from the deep green trees and moss perfectly.
If you’re still stuck for clothing ideas for your engagement photos I have a Pinterest board that I pin outfit inspiration ideas to! Check it out here.
