What to Wear for Engagement Photos: A Photographer's Complete Guide

"What should we wear?" is the question I'm asked most frequently before engagement sessions. And honestly, it's a great question—because outfit choices significantly impact how your photos turn out. After photographing hundreds of engagement sessions, I've developed clear guidance on what works, what doesn't, and why.

The Foundation: Understanding What Photographs Well

Before diving into specific recommendations, let's talk about why certain clothes photograph better than others. It's not about fashion—it's about how cameras and light interact with fabric.

Solid Colors vs. Patterns

Solid colors photograph cleanly because they don't compete for visual attention. Your faces, expressions, and connection remain the focal point. Busy patterns (small stripes, complex prints, tiny logos) can create visual "noise" that distracts from your expressions. In some cases, fine patterns create a moiré effect—a strange wavy distortion—in photographs. My recommendation: At least one person should wear solid colors. If you want patterns, choose large-scale prints that photograph more like texture than distraction.

Color Coordination (Not Matching)

The goal is harmony, not uniformity. When couples dress identically or in the exact same color, photos look staged and dated. What works:

Complementary tones (dusty blue and cream, olive and burgundy)

One person in a neutral, one in a soft color

Different shades within the same color family

What doesn't work:

Both in bright white (you'll glow like beacons)

Both in all black (you'll blend into shadows)

Matchy-matchy identical outfits

Texture Adds Interest

Solid colors don't mean boring. Texture photographs beautifully:

Linen and natural fabrics

Subtle knits and ribbing

Lace and embroidery details

Layered pieces (jackets, cardigans, vests)

Texture creates visual depth without the chaos of patterns.

Specific Recommendations by Season

Spring/Summer Sessions

For her:

Flowy midi dresses in soft pastels or warm neutrals

Rompers or culottes with a elevated top

Avoid extremely short skirts (sitting poses become awkward)

Bring a light cardigan for cooler evening light

For him:

Well-fitted chinos or dress pants

Button-up shirts (sleeves rolled works great)

Skip the shorts unless it's a beach session

Neutral or muted tones complement most locations

Colors that photograph beautifully: Dusty rose, sage green, soft terracotta, cream, light blue

Autumn/Winter Sessions

For her:

Knit sweater dresses

Midi skirts with cozy tops

Layers that can be added or removed

Statement coats that photograph well on their own

For him:

Textured blazers or sport coats

Sweaters over collared shirts

Darker denim (well-fitted, not distressed)

Leather jackets for an edge

Colors that photograph beautifully: Burgundy, forest green, rust, navy, camel, cream

What to Absolutely Avoid

After hundreds of sessions, these are the consistent wardrobe mistakes I see:

1. Brand Logos and Graphics

That Nike swoosh or band t-shirt might be your favorite, but it dates your photos instantly and pulls attention away from your faces.

2. Neon and Fluorescent Colors

Neon colors reflect onto skin, creating unnatural color casts that are difficult to correct in editing.

3. All-White or All-Black Outfits

Pure white glows disproportionately in photos. All-black absorbs light and loses detail. Either extreme causes exposure challenges.

4. Brand New, Never-Worn Outfits

New clothes often fit differently than expected. Worse, visible tags or creases from packaging are difficult to edit out. Wear and wash new pieces at least once.

5. Uncomfortable Shoes

If your feet hurt, your expression shows it. Engagement sessions involve walking, sometimes on uneven terrain. Choose shoes you can actually move in.

Planning for Your Location

Your outfit should complement—not compete with—your environment.

Urban/City Sessions

More polished looks work well

Darker colors pop against concrete and brick

Elevated casual (nice jeans, blazers) photographs beautifully

Beach Sessions

Light, airy fabrics that move in the breeze

Bare feet look natural; avoid athletic shoes

Wind-resistant hairstyles are essential

Forest/Park Sessions

Earth tones complement green surroundings

Avoid busy patterns that compete with foliage

Consider mosquitoes and dress accordingly

Vineyard/Winery Sessions

Elegant but not overly formal

Rich colors (burgundy, navy, forest green) photograph beautifully

Flowy dresses look stunning among vines

Practical Tips for the Day

Bring Options

I always recommend bringing 2-3 outfit options to your session. We can assess what works best in the actual light and adjust.

Plan for Movement

You'll be walking, sitting, possibly twirling. Make sure your clothes allow natural movement without riding up or restricting.

Grooming Matters Too

Haircuts 1-2 weeks before (fresh cuts can look too sharp)

Professional makeup that enhances without overdoing

Manicures if your ring will be featured

Avoid spray tans the day before (they photograph orange)

Check the Weather

It's not just about temperature—overcast days soften light (pastels work well), while sunny days increase contrast (jewel tones pop).

Final Thoughts

The best engagement photos happen when you feel confident and comfortable. If you hate wearing dresses, don't force it. If a blazer isn't your style, skip it. Your genuine comfort and happiness matter more than any wardrobe "rule." That said, a little planning goes a long way. Bring options, avoid the common pitfalls, and trust that we'll figure out what looks best once we're in the actual location and light. --- Need more personalized guidance? I offer wardrobe consultations as part of my engagement session packages.