There are 3 things you NEED to consider when making your outfit choices:


  1. Color
  2. Simplicity
  3. Comfort

Those might seem a little subjective, and they are, but considering these 3 key things from the perspective of how they photograph will absolutely elevate your session. Let's dive right into the first one!

1. Color


Now, this isn't going to be a style post like "find the color that suits your skin tone", a) because that's not my area of expertise, and b) because you already know what colors you look nice in. What I do want you to consider is the EMOTION you want to portray in your images. Especially for engagement sessions, the vast majority of people want to create a celebratory feeling, and at least in most Western cultures that means light and bright colors. I'm not saying you should wear bright neon coral to your engagement shoot, but choosing lighter colors like whites, teals, pastels, yellows, and light earth tones can create the impression of a more celebratory atmosphere. Darker colors can still be useful in providing contrast, but it's not usually the most flattering to have both people in the couple wear dark gray, navy, or black the whole time. That being said, I've done engagement sessions where one of the partners is wearing darker navy or black and the images still turn out beautifully! Ultimately though it does "weigh down" the images a bit, so be intentional about which darker colors you're choosing, and choose a lighter color for the other partner to wear to provide a little contrast.


Speaking of contrast, let's dive into our second key consideration:

2. Simplicity


When it comes to engagement photos specifically I do find the adage "less is more" to be very true. Your outfits should still feel like "you", but the goal should be to highlight the emotion between partners, not distract the viewer. Patterns especially can be tricky to incorporate, but can be done well! The general rule is that patterns on clothes should be limited, in both number and size. Patterns that are smaller than a dime can come across as static-y in photos and videos, so choose a medium to large size pattern when selecting your outfit. Color is also a consideration with patterns, and usually what photographs well are patterns that involve minimal additional colors. Unless there is a very particular reason for choosing a bright and colorful outfit with multiple patterns, for instance incorporating traditional cultural attire into your session, simplicity in pattern and color are your friends. When the clothes are simplified, it allows the viewer to focus more readily on the EMOTION of your image, which is what you and your partner are showcasing at an engagement shoot.


The final consideration might be a little unexpected, but hear me out:

3. Comfort

When being photographed most people will immediately think they have to find the "perfect" outfit, and it won't matter if it's comfortable or not, because it might look good in the mirror. I want to encourage you to find outfits that you can MOVE in, and that you're comfortable wearing. Practically, you may be asked to do quite a bit of moving around during your session, including walking and maybe even lifting! Wear clothes that will make it easier to do that and you'll be golden. Also, If you're wearing clothes that are comfortable you will look more relaxed and natural because you won't be thinking about how the waist is pinching or having to "suck in" to make it look right. The goal, at least for me, is to capture my subjects looking joyful and at ease. Those photos are so much more precious to me than a very manicured portrait because they show you as you truly are.


Below I'll include a few favorites from my past sessions for inspiration, and you can also check out my Pinterest style board!


See you soon!

Sarah