couple walking among wildflowers in colorado during their engagement photoshoot

What to Wear for Engagement Photos: Tips from a Wedding Photographer

Engagement photos are more than just a warm-up for your wedding day—they’re a chance to slow down, be present with each other, and capture the excitement of this season in a way that feels natural and authentic to you. A big part of making that happen? Choosing the right outfits.

One of the most common questions couples ask me is: “What to wear for engagement photos?” It’s a great question because the right clothing choices can enhance the mood and emotion of your images. The key is to wear something that reflects your personality, lets you move freely, and helps you feel confident in front of the camera.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what to wear for engagement photos—from color choices to fabrics, accessories, and more—so you can step into your session feeling prepared and excited.

Why Your Outfit Choices Matter

You don’t need to be a fashion expert to look great in your engagement photos. But it’s worth considering how certain fabrics, colors, and fits translate in images. What looks amazing in real life might not work as well under different lighting conditions or in an outdoor setting. The goal isn’t to follow trends—it’s to choose outfits that highlight your connection while complementing the natural environment around you. If you feel comfortable and confident, that will shine through in your images.

Additionally, consider how your engagement photos will be used. Many couples incorporate these images into their wedding decor, save-the-dates, or guest books. Choosing outfits that match the overall aesthetic of your wedding can create a cohesive look across all your wedding-related imagery. Think about whether your wedding is more formal, rustic, or modern, and let that inspire your clothing choices.

Couple kissing in front of a large, sweeping mountain view. He has taken his cowboy hat off and is holding it

Comfort Comes First

The best engagement photos happen when you’re able to move freely and stay relaxed. If you’re constantly adjusting a strap, tugging at a too-tight dress, or struggling with stiff clothing, that discomfort will show in your images. Choose clothing that fits well without feeling restrictive. Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or soft knits allow for movement while keeping you comfortable.

If you’re wearing new shoes, break them in ahead of time so you’re not distracted by discomfort. Blisters or sore feet can take away from your enjoyment of the session, so consider comfort when picking footwear. Layering is also a great way to accommodate changing temperatures, especially if we’re shooting outdoors. Confidence is key, and the more at ease you feel, the more natural and effortless your photos will look.

Another thing to keep in mind: dress appropriately for the location. If we’re heading to the mountains or an open field, heels might not be practical, but comfortable boots or stylish flats will be a great choice. If we’re in an urban environment, more structured outfits with sleek lines can work well.

How Many Outfits Should You Bring?

Most couples bring two outfits for variety—one that’s a little more polished and one that’s more relaxed. However, this is completely up to you. If we’re shooting in multiple locations, a wardrobe change can help add variety to your gallery. Keep in mind that some locations don’t have restrooms nearby, so you may need to change in your car if needed. The more outfit changes you have, the less time we’ll spend photographing, so choose a number that balances variety with maximizing our session time.

If you’re unsure how to transition between outfits, think about layering. Adding or removing a jacket, swapping shoes, or changing accessories can subtly alter your look without requiring a full outfit change. This approach allows you to get more variety in your gallery without cutting into our session time.

a couple wearing a white sweater and a white overcoat

Best Colors to Wear for Engagement Photos

Muted and earthy tones work beautifully for engagement photos because they complement most natural settings and keep the focus on your expressions rather than your clothing. Soft beiges, deep greens, rich browns, dusty blues, and muted grays are all great options. If you love bold colors, opt for jewel tones like emerald green, deep plum, or navy blue, which add richness without being overpowering. Burnt orange and mustard also work well for a warm, inviting look.

Rather than matching exactly, coordinate your outfits by choosing complementary colors. For example, if one of you wears deep forest green, the other might wear soft beige or light gray. Layering textures and different shades within the same color family creates a polished yet natural look.

Also, consider the season. Lighter colors like blush, sage, and sky blue are perfect for spring and summer, while deeper hues like burgundy, forest green, and charcoal work beautifully in the fall and winter months.

Patterns, Textures, & Fabrics

Patterns can add visual interest, but too much can be distracting. Soft, subtle patterns like small florals, fine plaids, or classic flannel work well, while large, bold prints can overpower your faces. A good rule of thumb is that only one person should wear a pattern while the other sticks to a solid or neutral texture to balance it out.

Fabrics with a little texture or movement photograph beautifully. Light, flowy materials like chiffon or linen add a sense of movement, while cozy knits and soft wool create depth. Structured yet comfortable options like denim or chambray can also work well. The goal is to wear something that lets you move naturally while adding visual depth to your photos.

man and woman embracing with the chicago skyline across the background

Accessories & Small Details

Accessories should add to your look without overwhelming it. Simple jewelry, hats, and scarves can enhance an outfit, but avoid anything too flashy or distracting. Watches, in particular, can be an issue. The circular watch face can draw the eye in photos and become a distraction. Smartwatches, which frequently update, will look outdated over time. However, if you have a high-quality, timeless watch that holds personal significance, feel free to wear it in a few photos before removing it for the rest of the session.

Shoes & Practical Tips

Shoes should match the vibe of your outfit while also being practical for the location. If we’re walking on uneven ground, heels may not be ideal. Boots, flats, or comfortable dress shoes work well in natural settings, while stylish sneakers or loafers can complement more casual looks. If you love heels, consider bringing a second pair of shoes to swap in between locations.

Don’t forget to empty your pockets before your session! Phones, wallets, and keys can create awkward bulges in photos. If you need to bring essentials, consider a small bag that we can set aside during shots.

man and woman standing on the shore of lake michigan with the chicago skyline in the background

Final Thoughts: Make It Your Own

At the end of the day, what to wear for engagement photos comes down to what makes you feel your best. This guide offers helpful recommendations, but if something speaks to you outside of these suggestions, go for it! The most beautiful photos come from moments where you feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourselves.

If you have any questions or need a second opinion, I’m always happy to help. You can send me photos of your outfit options, and we can brainstorm together to make sure you feel amazing for your session!

Need Help Deciding?

If you’re stuck between outfits, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can go over your options, think through your location, and ensure that you’re fully prepared. I can’t wait to capture this special time in your lives!

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