The date is set, the location is picked, and now you are ready to capture your love for all the world to see. The problem? You don’t know what to wear.
It’s a problem many couples face when planning their engagement shoots. Gone are the days of matchy-matchy outfits (white tee’s and denim, anyone?). Modern engagement photography focuses on capturing the couple as they are, just amplified.
Tips for Her
Wear a dress
It’s no secret why runways are filled with women in dresses, they truly flatter the body best on film. Long, full length, flowy dresses are particularly flattering and great for shoots in nature. They create movement and a romantic feeling that cannot be replicated with pants.
HOT TIP - Amazon dresses are a great way to try on lots of different dresses quickly and return the ones that are not perfect. Dress shopping on Amazon does require paying some attention to reviews.- look at what other shoppers are saying about the quality. I have a small list of dresses to get you going in the right direction here.
Go big
Have you dreamed about a flower crown, a tulle skirt, or other “extravagant” accessory? This is the time to GO for it. What may seem over the top can photograph beautifully.
Bring a second
So you want to go big but you also want to capture the more “normal” look you have? That’s ok! Bring an outfit change!
Accessorize
Accessories add layers. Layers add dimension and dimension adds interest. Go with a big statement necklace, dangly earrings, or stacked bracelets. Just be careful your accessories do not compete and you don’t have more than one big statement going on.
And don’t forget about accessorizing the scene. While the venue itself offers visual interest and layers it may not give a peek into your personality. Don’t be afraid to bring your favorite drink to pop open (White Claw anyone?), a picnic and your favorite bottle of wine to show your interest in food, or even some sports accessories to show your shared love of your favorite pastime.
Flatter your figure
Pick outfits that conceal the areas of your body you are not as confident about and show off the parts of your body that you love! Think 3/4 length sleeves, flowy tops and dresses, etc.
Wear heels, bring flats - Heels (especially closed toed) enlongate the legs and look amazing on every woman. Go for it with the heels! And if you are worried about your feet getting tired bring a pair of flats for in between shots!
Go Pro - Take the guesswork out of your look by going professional with your hair and makeup. Brides this is a great time to do a trial run with your wedding day stylists.
Tips for Him
Match your girl’s formality - Is your girl wearing a dress? A flowercrown? A big blingin’ necklace? Then don’t show up in shorts and a t-shirt. You want to match her vibe without overshadowing her at all times.
Dress up - Solid color suits are always flattering on any man. If suits really aren’t your thing go for nice pants and a button down shirt. This combo gives you options to accessorize and show your personality as well.
Accessorize - Socks, cufflinks, ties, tie clips, belts and vests are all great ways to interject your personality and style. These small details contribute to a polished, put together look. If you aren’t an accessory wearing man, think about bringing an accessory that fits your style as a couple… favorite wine anyone?
Choose the right fit
Being comfortable in front of the camera is important but that doesn’t mean wearing oversized, baggy items will look good. Make sure your ensemble is tailored well to your body.
Be at ease - Being in front of the camera is not my favorite either. Do something for you before the shoot (grab a beer, hit the gym, whatever helps you get into a positive frame of mind) so that you can be at ease. And make sure you eat something so you aren’t starving!
Colors
Florescent and bold colors do not photograph as well as muted, soft, and more neutral shades. No matter how amazing your outfit is you want the focus to be on your face, your chemistry and the love shared. If your outfit distracts from that or casts a color shade you will be disappointed with the outcome.
If we are shooting in an outside location that has a lot of green stay away from a green color palette. You don’t want to blend in with the background but rather contrast with it.
Don’t match, coordinate. A cohesive image is not made by wearing the same color top and bottom. A beautiful photo is achieved when the look of everyone in the picture is coordinating but not matching. Chose 2-3 main colors as your primary palette and then add accents for each person from there. Layering with accent colors builds dimension, expresses personality and gives the photo life.
That’s it friends… follow these simple tips and you will be set up for the perfect shoot! For more inspiration be sure to check out my Pinterest Boards and Instagram!