Your engagement session is the first chapter of your wedding story — the part where you get to slow down, celebrate this season, and capture who you are together right now.

Taking photos can be intimidating, but I promise you there’s nothing to fear! Engagement sessions with me are laid back and easy. Think of it less like a formal photoshoot and more like hanging out together (but with me as third wheel)!!

These photos aren’t just for today. They’ll live on your walls, your wedding website, and often times your save-the-dates. You’ll want to look back at them years from now and see images that feel timeless and true to who you are. That’s where what you wear comes in — outfits that are comfortable, flattering, and elevated just enough to feel special.

Comfort = Confidence

If you don’t feel good in it, it’s not the right choice. These photos will involve walking, sitting, laughing, and moving — you don’t want to be fussing with clothes that are too tight, itchy, or restrictive. Above all, wear something that lets you relax. Confidence always photographs best.

Some photographers will tell you to stick only to “classic” looks. While timeless is always a good choice, don’t feel like you have to avoid trends altogether. Your engagement photos are about capturing this exact moment in your lives — and your style is part of that. If you love something trendy, lean in. The key is to take your everyday style and elevate it, like how you’d dress for a fun night out.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

The goal is to look cohesive, not identical.

Stick to a shared palette without being “matchy.”
If one of you wears a pattern, the other should balance with a solid.
Match the level of dressiness — if one is dressed up, the other shouldn’t look too casual.

Color Choices That Work

Colors set the mood of your photos. Choose tones that either complement your surroundings or contrast them intentionally. Keep in mind the colors of the location we will be shooting at.

In general, neutrals and earthy tones photograph best — they’re flattering, timeless, and don’t distract. Stay away from bright, dominant colors that can overpower.

That doesn’t mean you’re limited to beige. Every color has a neutral version:

Instead of bright green → go for a soft forest green
Instead of electric red → choose a deep maroon
Instead of bright blue → pick a muted slate or sky blue

The result is elevated color that feels intentional but still lets the focus stay on you. Of course, the bride-to-be always looks perfect in white or ivory!

Fabrics + Texture

Texture adds depth and visual interest without being overwhelming. Linen, cotton, silk, chiffon, or even a knit sweater can make your photos feel layered and natural. Busy prints often distract, but texture photographs beautifully.

Dress for the Location + Season

Outfits should make sense for where we’re shooting:

City: chic neutrals, sharp tailoring, or one bold statement piece.
Nature: earthy tones (olive, rust, tan, ivory) that make sense with the surroundings.
Beach/waterfront: breezy fabrics in softer tones.

Also factor in the season: layers in fall and winter not only look great but keep you warm. In spring and summer, go lighter with breathable fabrics. If you’re too hot or too cold, it will show in the photos.

Hair, Makeup + Details

Your engagement session is a great time to schedule your wedding hair or makeup trial! Professional styling photographs beautifully, but it should still feel like you.

Accessories can take a look from “just clothes” to “styled.” A hat, jacket, or statement piece of jewelry or shoes is often all you need.

And don’t forget the details:

Clean your ring!
Nails (for both of you) should be neat and simple.
Hey guys! Don’t forget to empty pockets — phones, wallets, and keys all show.
Leave smartwatches at home — they stand out more than you think.

Bring Two Looks

I highly recommend mixing it up halfway through the session! In my standard engagement sessions, we’ll have plenty of time for two looks and 1-2 locations. Two different outfits give variety without overcomplicating things. I recommend one dressy look + one casual chic look.

Recap!

DO WEAR:

Soft, neutral, or earthy tones (light colors photograph beautifully)
Coordinated outfits that work together without being identical
Outfits of similar formality so you look balanced side by side
A second outfit to mix it up (one dressy, one casual works best)
Clothes that you feel comfortable and confident in
Weather-appropriate looks so you can fully enjoy the session

DON’T WEAR:

Bright or harsh colors that overpower
Matching outfits that blend you into one another
One outfit that’s super formal while the other is overly casual
Only formal outfits if you also want relaxed, natural images
Anything you don’t truly love from every angle
Clothes that will leave you freezing in winter or sweating in summer

There’s no one “right” outfit for engagement photos. The best looks are the ones that feel like you, fit your environment, and let you enjoy the session. If you’re ever unsure, feel free to send me photos of your options — I’m always happy to help you choose!

One Last Tip!

You’re already dressed up, feeling great, and celebrating your engagement — why not make a night of it? I always recommend planning a date after your session. Head to your favorite restaurant, grab cocktails, or do something fun together. It turns your engagement photos into the start of a whole memory, not just the shoot itself.

Engagement Session Style Guide