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what to wear for engagement photos??
First and foremost, there are no hard and fast rules – at the end of the day, you do you! However, we have some tips that might make things a little easier as you navigate finding that perfect outfit for your e-session.
No matter what season you find yourself in, it’s always important to dress accordingly. Layers are key (especially in the winter). You can always peel a layer off if needed. We don’t recommend shorts for guys in the spring/summer, and we do suggest dresses for the ladies, but only if that’s your jam. If jeans are your thing, then wear the jeans, dang it!
Think jackets, touques, hats, scarves etc…
Plan your outfit around both the location and weather conditions. Feel free to bring an extra outfit, as a wardrobe change brings variety to your shoot. Not only does it bring additional combinations to the table, but literally brings a completely different vibe. At the end of the day, have what you need to make sure you’re comfortable and feeling ready to crush it.
Do away with the whole matchy-matchy look and compliment each other instead. You don’t want to look like your partner’s twin, do ya? Complementary outfits create visual harmony like peanut butter and jelly if ya know what we mean? On the other hand, matching can make you look like a clump of colour, melded together with no clear indication of where you end and your partner begins. Ew! Ok, you’ve been informed.
As we said at the start – you do you! Wear something that makes you feel downright awesome (and comfortable). If you’re a jeans and t-shirt kinda person, then go for it (but don’t both wear the same tone of blue jeans – eek!). If you want to dress up to the nines and show off your style profile, then make it happen, baby. If Seattle grunge is making a comeback in your wardrobe, then show it off. At the end of the day, wear what you want to see yourself wearing when you hang those magical photos on your walls.
Let’s get more specific now . . . pick fabrics that move and flow. Outfits with texture like linens and cottons are always a solid option. Earthy colours are typically neutral, and what we mean by that is softer tones rather than bold colours. Colours are dependent upon the environment. For example, a mustard top will be epic in a green forest, and black may work perfectly in a field or urban environment. Just be conscientious, not to blend in!
If you want to be upstaged in your engagement photos, then please . . . wear large prints, patterns, and logos. All of these things if used incorrectly, have a way of stealing the show. It’s not that they can’t work in some situations, but we don’t recommend them for engagement photos. And at the end of the day, they’re generally distracting, and it’s about the two of you and your connection. It’s not like Nike or Adidas is cutting you a cheque anyway, right?
There is a fine art to accessorizing and perhaps you have the knack for it. Hats, sunglasses, and jackets can really spice up your accessory game. But beware of watches as they can really stand out and look weird in intimate photos as you hold each other close – so watch out for that! haha – pun totally intended.
It’s always good to bring a small bag of accessories just in case you want to season your session with a pop of flavor here and there.
The big moment has arrived and you have found the one your soul loves. It’s time to put that epic, radiant sun-warming love on display and create some magic your grandkids will brag about. Just relax, live in the moment, and most importantly – have fun! You’ve got this!
bring your a-game!
Do you remember that colour wheel you learned about way back in grade school? It turns out it’s relevant after all, and you finally have your golden opportunity to put it to use. Basically, you want to go for colours that are opposite each other on the wheel. Those are your complementary colours. We’ve added a link to the Canva colour wheel doo-dad so you can play around and see what combos make your heart sing.
Do you still need a photographer? We got you! Why don’t you have a peruse and if you dig what you see, hit us up!
Cheers!
Shane + Jenny
Reed Photography
lookin’ good!
Niagara Region Wedding Photographers Shane and Jenny of Reed Photography specialize in wedding photography, but also take on commercial and portrait work. They are based in St. Catharines, Ontario, serving the Niagara region, Hamilton, and beyond.
