what to wear to your photoshoot: a guide for couples
Let’s be real—no one actually loves getting their picture taken (except maybe your friend the natural influencer).
But everyone does loveeee having beautiful photos to look back on.
& I totally get it—figuring out what to wear, how to pose, and just the overall what do I do with my hands?! panic can feel intimidating. But I promise you, it won’t be :) My photography superpower is making my couples feel totally comfortable, have fun and actually enjoy their session. Seriously, by the end of it, you’ll forget the camera is even there.
Now, let’s talk outfits. Because while your photos are about capturing your love, what you wear plays a big role in how they turn out. Here’s my best advice for looking and feeling your absolute best—without stressing over it.
General Outfit Tips for Couples Photos
Comfort is key. If you don’t feel good in it, you won’t look confident in the photos. Stick with outfits that feel like you, but maybe a slightly polished-up version. Like your favorite outfit that makes you feel a little extra cute. If you feel comfortable, you’ll feel confident. Meanwhile if you're constantly adjusting a strap or pulling at your shirt, it'll show in the pictures.
Coordinate, but don’t match. Gone are the days of stiff, overly matchy outfits (RIP to the JC Penny’s white t shirt and jean combo).
Instead, choose colors that complement each other. Think warm, earthy tones or cool neutrals that flow together.
Textures > Patterns. Flowy fabrics, soft knits, and layers photograph beautifully. If you love patterns, keep them subtle—tiny florals or soft plaids work better than bold, loud prints that can be distracting. And if you want to wear a pattern, I recommend only one of you wear it, while the other wear a solid color that compliments the pattern’s color scheme.
Consider the location. If we’re shooting in the woods, wearing neon colors might not be the move. If we’re downtown, casual-chic will look amazing. Think about your surroundings and pick colors that make sense with the vibe. Think: autumn - browns, creams, burnt orange, olive green, burgundy. Versus summer: light, pastel & pale tones.
Shoes matter. You might not think much about them, but if we’re walking through a field or on a beach, stilettos are going to be a struggle. Opt for comfy, stylish shoes that match the location and outfit.
Accessories and layers = added magic. Hats, scarves, jackets, or dainty jewelry add so much dimension to photos. Just don’t overdo it—one or two statement pieces max.
What to Wear for an Engagement Session
Engagement sessions are extra special because they’re all about celebrating this exciting season of your lives! You’ll probably use these photos for save-the-dates, your wedding website, and social media announcements, so choosing outfits you love is important.
Here are some tips to totally nail your engagement session look:
Bring two outfits. One dressier, one more casual. That way, you get a mix of formal and relaxed photos. Think flowy dresses, classic button-ups, or chic jumpsuits for dressy. For casual, jeans and a cozy sweater or a sundress with boots.
Neutrals and soft tones are your best friend. Muted colors like beige, soft blues, olive, and blush look amazing and timeless. Bright, neon colors or super busy patterns can take attention away from you two.
Dress for movement. I love getting those dreamy, candid shots of you twirling, walking, or snuggling up. Flowy dresses, skirts, or relaxed-fit clothes allow for natural movement and make your photos feel more dynamic.
Hair and makeup: do what makes you feel best. Some people like to get professional hair and makeup done for their engagement shoot, and that’s great! But if that’s not your thing, don’t stress. Just aim for a slightly polished version of your everyday look, and you’ll look fabulous.
Stay true to your style. If you never wear heels, your engagement shoot isn’t the time to start. If you live in band tees and ripped jeans, let’s make that look work in a stylish way. Your photos should feel authentic to you.
Final Thoughts
so, don’t forget to avoid:
Too many patterns
If one person is wearing a pattern, another person could opt for a solid color that compliments the pattern
Too many accessories
It can be distracting from the subjects and the overall vibe. The simpler the better
Bright whites and blacks
while they can work in some settings, they tend to be tricky with lighting. Off-whites, creams, and softer shades are usually safer
At the end of the day, what you wear isn’t as important as how you feel during your session. If you’re comfortable, confident, and having fun, that’s what will shine through in your photos. I’m here to make sure you both feel totally at ease, so let’s pick some outfits you love, have a blast, and capture some incredible memories together!
If you still need help deciding on outfits, send me a message—I’m here for my couples every step of the way 💛
