What to Wear for Your Engagement Session
From your friendly neighborhood photographers (who’s photographed more lovebirds than a Nicholas Sparks novel)
Hey there!
First of all—CONGRATULATIONS! You're engaged! That shiny new bling on your finger is more than just an accessory... it's a one-way ticket to the rest of your life with your favorite human. 🎉💍
As your photographers / videographers, we’re here to make you look and feel amazing during your engagement shoot. But before we bring out our cameras, let’s talk about what you’ll be wearing. Because while true love is timeless, fashion... well, fashion benefits from a little direction. 😉
Below is your go-to guide to look polished, comfortable, and totally you—without needing a closet overhaul.
1. Dress Like Yourselves—But Elevated
You don’t need to look like you're headed to the Met Gala. But you also don’t want to look like you're running errands at Target (unless it’s your thing, then hey, let’s shoot there too).
Think of it as:
“Us on our best date ever.”
Choose outfits that reflect your personal style, just a bit more polished and intentional. These photos will last a lifetime—so let's make sure they age like fine wine, not expired milk.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Clone
Matching outfits are for twins at Disney World, not engagement shoots. 🙃
Instead of wearing identical colors, aim for complementary tones and textures. If one of you is wearing a bold pattern, the other might go more neutral. Think of it like a great relationship—balance is key.
🎨 Color palettes that photograph beautifully:
Earthy neutrals (think sage green, rust, cream, taupe, navy)
Soft pastels in spring (blush, sky blue, lavender)
Rich jewel tones in fall/winter (emerald, burgundy, mustard)
Avoid neons (unless you want to glow like a highlighter) and tiny tight patterns (they can create funky effects on camera).
3. Think Seasonally (Because Sweating Isn’t Sexy)
Is it the dead of summer? Maybe skip the thick wool sweater. Snow on the ground? Leave the strappy sundress at home.
🍂 Fall: Layers, cozy knits, boots, scarves
☀️ Summer: Light fabrics, flowy dresses, short sleeves
🌸 Spring: Florals (groundbreaking, I know), pastels, denim jackets
❄️ Winter: Coats, gloves, statement outerwear—yes, coats can be cute
4. Dress for the Location
Getting dreamy photos in a field? Heels might not be your friend. Shooting downtown at sunset? Maybe skip the flannel and hiking boots.
If you're not sure what fits the setting, ask us! We know what works (and what might make you sink into mud up to your ankles).
5. Bring Two Outfits (Optional but Awesome)
One casual, one dressier is a great combo.
Examples:
Casual: Jeans + sweater / sundress + denim jacket
Dressy: Suit jacket + trousers / maxi dress + heels (or cute flats if you're anti-blister)
We’ll switch halfway through the session if the location allows. More variety, more fun, more photos for Grandma.
6. Ladies: Flowy is Your Friend
There’s just something magical about dresses or skirts with movement—especially if there's a breeze (cue slow-mo movie moment). Long and flowy works great in almost every setting and flatters all body types.
Plus, twirling is basically required. It’s science. 🧪💃
7. Guys: Fit > Fancy
You don’t need a tux, but a crisp, well-fitted shirt or henley goes a long way. Button-downs, sweaters, and casual blazers are all fair game.
Also: skip the graphic tees, gym sneakers, and cargo shorts... unless you're doing an ironic "90s dad" shoot. (Actually... call us if you are. That sounds hilarious.)
8. Shoes Matter (Yes, Really)
Your feet will be in the photos. Don’t let your footwear ruin the vibe.
For her: Boots, sandals, or dressy flats
For him: Leather boots, dress shoes, clean sneakers
Avoid: Bright white sneakers, athletic shoes, Crocs (unless again, ironic)
9. Hair, Makeup, & Grooming Tips
You don’t have to book a glam squad—unless you want to! But a little extra polish goes a long way. Light makeup helps even skin tone on camera. If you're getting a haircut, do it a few days before so it has time to settle.
Bonus: this is the perfect time to test your wedding makeup artist or stylist.
10. Accessories: Less is More
A statement necklace or wide-brimmed hat? Cute. Ten bangles, hoop earrings, and a cowboy hat? Save it for the rodeo.
If you want to bring props—champagne, a blanket, your dog, etc.—let us know! We’re totally down for it, but we’ll want to style it right.
A Few Quick No-No’s (With Love):
❌ No logos or big brand names
❌ Avoid neon colors
❌ No wrinkle-prone clothes (iron or steam ahead of time)
❌ Don’t bring your phone in your pocket. I see it. The camera sees it. The world sees it.
TL;DR? Here's the Cheat Sheet:
✅ Be yourselves—but polished
✅ Coordinate colors, don’t match
✅ Dress for the location + weather
✅ Bring a second outfit if you want variety
✅ Prioritize fit + comfort
✅ Shoes, grooming, and accessories matter
✅ When in doubt—ask us. We’ve seen it all!
Most importantly:
Have fun with it. Laugh a lot. Love each other a little extra. These photos are about you two—your connection, your story, your adventure together.
Let’s make some magic. ✨
See you in front of the lens,
Andrew & Cheyenne
(aka your third & fourth wheels for the day)
📸
