Your Outfit Sets the Tone for Your Entire Session
One of the most common questions I get from couples is "What should we wear?" And I get it — choosing an outfit that looks great in real life AND photographs well can feel overwhelming. But here's the good news: with a few simple guidelines, you'll look and feel amazing.
The Golden Rules
1. Coordinate, Don't Match
Gone are the days of matching khaki-and-white-shirt combos. Instead, choose a complementary color palette. If one person wears a rich emerald dress, the other might wear navy or charcoal. The goal is harmony, not uniformity.
2. Start with One Outfit, Build from There
Pick one person's outfit first — usually the piece you're most excited about — and build the other person's look to complement it. This creates a cohesive visual story.
3. Add Texture and Layers
Flat, solid-colored clothing can photograph one-dimensionally. Layers add visual interest: a blazer over a button-down, a scarf with a sweater, a jacket draped over shoulders. These details give your photos depth and movement.
Colors That Photograph Beautifully
Always flattering: Deep jewel tones (emerald, burgundy, navy, sapphire), earth tones (terracotta, sage, cream, camel), and classic neutrals (black, charcoal, ivory).
Use with caution: Bright white can blow out in photos, especially in direct sunlight. Neon colors can cast unflattering color onto your skin. Very busy patterns can be distracting and compete with your faces.
Season-specific picks:
- Spring: Soft pastels, flowy fabrics, floral accents
- Summer: Light linens, sun-washed colors, breezy silhouettes
- Fall: Rich earth tones, chunky knits, leather jackets
- Winter: Deep jewel tones, wool coats, velvet textures
Practical Tips
- Try everything on together. Stand side by side in front of a mirror. Do your outfits work as a pair?
- Iron or steam your clothes. Wrinkles are magnified in photos and can't always be edited out.
- Wear comfortable shoes. We'll be walking, and your comfort shows in your expressions.
- Bring a second outfit. Most of my engagement sessions include time for an outfit change, which gives your gallery more variety.
- Accessorize thoughtfully. A statement necklace, a great watch, or a beautiful hat can elevate a simple outfit.
What to Avoid
- Logos or large graphic text on clothing
- Overly casual athletic wear (unless that's your thing!)
- Brand new shoes you haven't broken in
- Anything you'd constantly adjust or feel self-conscious in
Still Unsure?
I offer a complimentary outfit consultation with every engagement session booking. Send me photos of your top 2-3 options and I'll help you narrow it down. Your comfort and confidence are the most important accessories — everything else is just icing on the cake.