Your engagement photos set the tone for the exciting journey towards your wedding day. While the focus is undoubtedly on the connection between you and your partner, what you wear can contribute significantly to the overall mood and aesthetic of your engagement shoots.
Ultimately, your engagement photos are about capturing the genuine “feeling” between you and your partner. What you choose to wear does impact the overall mood of the photos, but the key is to feel like yourself. Whether it’s a flowing dress and heels or a comfortable t-shirt and jean shorts, the goal is for you to feel confident and authentic. When you feel good in your outfit, that positive energy will shine through in your engagement shoots.
Something to keep in mind when choosing your outfits is the season and the aesthetic of your chosen location. Earthy tones and warm colors complement fall settings, while pastels and light fabrics work well for spring and summer shoots. Winter engagements can embrace rich, deep hues and cozy textures. What you wear should fit your setting. Take, for example, the first couple in the gallery. If they showed up to their beautiful majestic garden setting dressed in ripped jeans and a casual plain t-shirt, I feel as though it wouldn’t have created the same effect as what you are seeing below. Their outfits matched perfectly with their vibe, making for the most perfect shots.
The chosen location for your engagement shoots should play a role in your outfit selection. If you’re venturing into the woods for a rustic backdrop, high heels or dress shoes might not be the best choice for a location that requires lots of movement. Choosing outfits that not only complement the setting but also allow you to move comfortably is key. A thoughtful outfit selection ensures you can fully engage in the moment without any wardrobe limitations.
While personal style is encouraged, I would recommend against any clothing pieces that are busy, thin patterns that can create a distracting “moire effect” in photos. Additionally, bright colors can influence the skin tones captured by the camera. Opting for cream, eggshell, or off-white instead of stark white helps maintain a natural color balance. Neutral tones, soft patterns, and organic textures tend to photograph best and create a timeless look for your engagement photos.
This is a very big planning season for you, and as much as I don’t want to add more planning to your plate, your wardrobe for your engagement session is important. Whether your engagement shoot is casual or more formal, the goal is to create a look that feels authentic, resonates with your personal style as a couple, and complements the seasonal and aesthetic elements of your chosen location. Your engagement photos are a celebration of your love story. As you embark on this journey towards your wedding day, take the time to carefully consider your outfits. Review these tips, but most importantly, let your personalities shine through in your engagement shoots.
Sarah Brookhart Photography is affirming and inclusive. All races, ethnicities, identities, and sexualities are welcome and valued here.
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