6 Best Outfit Tips for Engagement Photos in 2024
July 26th, 2024
After choosing a life partner wisely, the next step is to present yourself as the best couple in town! A romantic engagement photo shoot is your best chance to display your chemistry and emotional bonding. As the momentous occasion arrives, the pressure to look your best and shine on social media can keep you awake at night. What to wear for an engagement photoshoot is your choice, but it can be nerve-wracking, especially when you are overwhelmed with many tasks to complete to plan the big day! We are sharing the six best outfit tips for engagement photos to relieve stress.
1. CHOOSE LIGHT, SOFT, NEUTRAL TONES.
Solid colors photograph better than busy patterns, but a pop of pattern can add fun. The first tip for couples is to lean towards solid colors for capturing genuine moments in wedding photography. Khaki, light grey, light blue, and pastel colors make the guys appear more handsome. Light pinks, blues, and greens are perfect for the beauties. For a timeless look, consider a well-fitted suit in navy or charcoal for him, paired with a flowing midi dress in a complementary color for her. You want the primary attention on you and your love, so avoid making your shirt or skirt the focus of your photograph. Also, avoid non-photogenic colors like orange and those immediately attracting attention, like baby pink.
2. COORDINATE, DON’T MATCH, WITH YOUR PARTNER.
Matching head-to-toe is not recommended, especially for portrait sessions! You don't have to look like twins. How boring would those images be if you wore the same color tone to your engagement session? Instead, try coordinating colors or styles that complement each other. Go for monochromatic coordination and choose outfits in varying shades of the same color family. For example, he could wear light grey chinos with a darker grey sweater while she wears a silver-grey dress. This creates a cohesive look without being overly matchy.
3. DRESS AT THE SAME LEVEL OF FORMALITY.
Aligning your formality levels is essential for a cohesive look in your engagement photos. With similar levels of dressiness, your photos will look more harmonious and intentional. As a couple, you should communicate and plan together before choosing outfits. The overall vibe you want for your photos is essential. Ask your partner whether we are you are going for casual and relaxed, semi-formal, or full-on glamour. Once you agree on a direction, you can select outfits that fit that vision. If you're aiming for a more glamorous shoot, the guy can wear a tuxedo or formal suit, while the girl should choose a floor-length gown or cocktail dress. If the bride prefers the casual and fun route, the guy can complement her with chinos and polo shirts.
4. WEAR WHAT MAKES YOU COMFORTABLE
Comfort is vital when picking your engagement session outfit. To radiate confidence, wear something that makes you feel like you. If you feel uncomfortable in your clothing, it will show on camera. Choose breathable, moveable fabrics that won't restrict your movement. Avoid stiff materials that might bunch or wrinkle in photos. Avoid stiff suits and itchy dresses because this isn't prom night. Don't wear uncomfortable shoes just for the sake of aesthetics. Choose shoes that support you and allow you to comfortably walk, pose, and explore the location. Guys must remove cell phones, wallets, or keys from their pockets to avoid an inappropriate look. It comes across when you’re in something that feels strange to you. Some couples love an excuse to go all out on a fun, dressed-up outfit, while others prefer a more casual but polished look. The bottom line is to Listen to your gut regarding what you feel good about.
5. DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR THE WEATHER AND LOCATION
Take advantage of the season you're in by styling a look that's in tune with the climate and location. For example, a cowl neck scarf doesn't work in the summer. Consider going barefoot on the beach or sharing a cone on the pier in sandals and shorts during hot weather. Light, airy fabrics are made for this scenario. With flowers in bloom and love in the air, subtle floral prints and spring-approved pastel hues that speak to the season are a must. Pair a maxi dress with a statement necklace or a sundress with a denim jacket for a sweet look. Only wear green if you're outdoors in a moderately lush area. If it's chilly, layer up with pieces you can easily remove for different shots. Fleece-lined tights under jeans or pants would be ideal for winter. Winter accessories can be adorable. Plus, it makes more sense visually to be dressed for winter if you're being photographed in the snow.
6. DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE PROPS AND ACCESSORIES
The right accessories can dramatically transform your look into a magazine-worthy one. When discussing props for a photo shoot, don’t limit yourself to necklaces, sunglasses, and belts. You can add layers like jackets, blazers, cardigans, chunky knit sweaters, and scarves. Go for statement earrings or a playful hat. They all add dimension to your photos and make it easy to give yourself multiple looks without changing your outfit. Using props in an engagement photoshoot is a bright chance to display your true personalities and mutual memories. Think about the activities you love doing together. Bring chef's hats, aprons, or favorite cookbooks if food is your love language. You can also bring letter balloons forming your initials or wedding year. For many couples, pets are an integral part of their family. If you have a cat, incorporate a ball of yarn with your wedding date woven into it. Step further and pose with vintage suitcases, or include a map highlighting all the places you've traveled together. In short, the possibilities are endless, and they add a personal touch that'll make you smile for years to come. But remember, less is often more. Don't go overboard and clash with your outfit. Let your accessories add personality without stealing the spotlight from your love story.
FINAL THOUGHTS
You’ll have these photos for the rest of your life, so you want to ensure you wear something you won’t regret. Things can still go wrong if you, by any chance, hire a sub-par photography service. That's where a killer photographer (or a couple of them) comes in. With hishutter wedding photography at your service, let’s perfectly capture the aesthetic you're going for. Our camera will pick up on that genuine connection, and your engagement photos will be pure magic.
