A Comprehensive Guide by Your Wedding Photographer
Sophie & Owen wearing elevated casual with a fun summer dress. Check out the full gallery here.
Outline (click on contents to jump straight there)
Importance of choosing the right outfit
How this guide can help
Having a vision for the shoot
Matching the theme to your personalities
Theme ideas
Outdoor vs. indoor settings
Seasonal considerations: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Importance of coordinating colours
Tips on choosing the right colour palette
Why comfort should be prioritised
Casual looks
Formal attire
Seasonal outfit suggestions
Dresses and skirts
Casual chic looks
Seasonal outfit suggestions
Why to avoid busy patterns
Keeping the focus on the couple
Less is more: Avoiding over-accessorizing
Professional vs. DIY
Ensuring long-lasting hair and makeup
Practicality vs. style
Choosing shoes based on location
Doing a dress rehearsal
Last-minute tips and checks
Recap of key points
Encouragement to enjoy the process
How many outfits should we bring?
Can we include our pets in the photoshoot?
Should we hire a stylist?
What if the weather is bad on the day of our shoot?
Introduction
Choosing the right outfit for your engagement photoshoot can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Your engagement photos are a celebration of your love and an opportunity to capture the joy and excitement leading up to your wedding day. On top of this you will have photos to use on invitations to the wedding, have some great shots to make announcements on social media or to populate your wedding website. It is not uncommon to have some great prints placed around your wedding reception to personalise the look and feel of your venue. In this guide, I'll help you navigate the ins and outs of what to wear for your engagement photoshoot, ensuring you look and feel your best. Let's dive in!
Understanding the Theme of Your Engagement Photoshoot
First things first, it's essential to have a clear vision of the theme for your engagement photoshoot. Some couples go for an engagement shoot because a blog or magazine told them to, or you want to test drive a possible photographer in the sense of how they shoot and what they are like to work with, but with little thought of the meaning and idea behind it. You need to ask yourselves are you going for a more fun and outgoing vibe, or something more elegant and sexy?
Understanding the theme will help you choose outfits that align with your vision and reflect your personalities. I often suggest looking at what you love doing together, either an activity or a common love (like vintage cars or bushwalking), or consider a location that is special to you both (like where you met or had a first date). Here is my own Pinterest Board of ideas I have curated, it is simple because too many ideas will just confuse you.
Theme Ideas
The ideas are almost endless, some require more time than others, some might require travel, accommodation fees, parking and entry fees, props, permits and more.
Classy shoot with a luxury or vintage car
Mini Golf, gaming arcade, amusement park, sporting activity
Nature walk with the dog in a nice forest or park (as pictured above)
Sexy roll around in the waves at a beach
Put on some vintage clothes and order a pizza to munch on a boardwalk or under the lights of the city
Rent a luxury bar space and dress up in formal wear then go for a stroll in the city in the evening
If you’re both buff a sweaty sesh in a gym (get owner’s permission of course)
Get a couple of old school cruiser bikes with outfits to go with them
Splash out on an high-end AirBnb and make a weekend away of it (I only need you for an hour or so)
Hire a studio space with professional lighting and do a fashionista style shoot (That would be epic)
Considering the Location and Season
The location and season of your photoshoot play a significant role in determining what to wear. Below is a good indication of the basics.
Outdoor vs. Indoor Settings
Outdoor Settings: If your shoot is outdoors, consider the terrain and weather. You might want to avoid high heels if you'll be walking on uneven ground such as a mountain hike or scaling rocks at a beach.
Indoor Settings: For indoor shoots, the activity and decor can influence your outfit choices. Opt for colours that complement the setting and the theme - elevated dress for a bar setting, or casual if you’re at a bowling alley. Even consider a photo studio as I know how to work with lights.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring: Light, airy fabrics and soft/pastel colours work well.
Summer: Bright and fun colours and breathable materials are ideal.
Autumn: Think cosy textures and warm, earthy tones like ochre, tan or greens.
Winter: Rich, deep colours and layers to keep you warm. Think wool jackets, complemented with beanies and scarves.
Kirsten and Joseph's Carlton Garden's E-session took place in late the cool late autumn with tones to match and simple elegance.
Colour Coordination
Colour coordination can make a huge difference in your photos. Choose a colour palette that works with both your skin tones and the backdrop of your photoshoot. If your session is in a primarily green garden, consider a colour to offset that. You also need to balance the look with each other, no sense having one of you in black, the other in navy blue or look like you’re on the olympic swim team.
Tips on Choosing the Right Color Palette
Neutral Colours: Whites, creams, bone and warm greys are always safe bets.
Pop of Colour: Don’t be afraid to add a pop of colour to make your photos stand out. You can use accessories to achieve this, like shoes, scarves, belts etc.
Avoid Matching: Instead of matching exactly, choose colours that complement each other. We don’t want to look like twinsies do we?
Steph & Danny opted for a clean and simple colour pallette that matched the urban environment and ideal for the spring climate. Check out the full gallery here.
Comfort is Key
Comfort should be absolutely a top priority when choosing your outfits. You want to feel relaxed and at ease during the shoot, as your comfort level will reflect in your photos. You don’t want to be fighting a long dress getting caught on grass all the time, or wear a material that will make you warm if the sun is out. You also would want to consider the drape and fit of the garments to suit your body type, you need to feel at your best to bring out the real you.
For materials; wool is good for winter, linen is good for summer and cotton is great for everything in-between. Poly blends often aren’t as breathable so they won’t wick sweat away as well and can get clingy in the heat. It also might be worth considering getting alterations to the clothes to make them fit ultra perfect. All of my dress pants, shirts and blazers are altered to fit me better, it makes you feel and look more confident.
Outfit Ideas for Him
When it comes to the groom-to-be, there are several options and combinations to consider. It will come down to the theme you’re going for as to what direction you will go in. You can even get two outfits based around one set of tops and bottoms by switching out things like accessories, shoes and jackets.
Michael went for an accessorised elevated casual look with premium shoes and blazer jacket. Check out the rest of the shoot here.
Casual Looks
A well-fitted pair of jeans (no holes or slits), chinos and a button up shirt can look effortlessly stylish. A fresh and new polo T is a good alternative. Elevate the look by adding a blazer jacket or overshirt to get more of layered look. Just having a basic Tee on its own is too stripped back, have it layered with an overshirt or an unbuttoned short sleeve collared shirt.
Shoes can range from fresh looking street sneakers to leather boots. Leave the cheap skater shoes at home, it isn’t 1999 anymore.
Formal Attire
If you're aiming for a more elegant and polished look, consider a suit or blazer with tailored pants in a matching colour. The beauty of having a set of tailored slacks is they are so versatile, you can pair them with multiple different shirts and jackets for unlimited combos. The formal look is often defined by the cut of the lapel and the degree of tailoring. A formal shirt will be a rich cotton, with starched collars, and often a micro pattern or texture. The shoe choice would be leather dress shoes or loafers.
Seasonal Outfit Suggestions
Spring/Summer: Light fabrics like linen or cotton that have a nice flow and fit.
Fall/Winter: Layers, such as sweaters and jackets, in richer colours.
Ruby and Eugene, looking funky and tonally matching in a semi formal look utilising vintage pieces curated by a stylist.
Outfit Ideas for Her
For the bride-to-be, the options are endless and often ends in confusion in the hours leading up to leaving for the shoot. Create a mood board to nail down the look you are trying to achieve and shop based on that.
Dresses and Skirts
Flowy dresses and skirts can add a romantic touch to your photos. Feel free to go beyond what you would normally wear, it is still a special occasion. Add punch with sequins, layered textures, and puffy sleeves (not too 80’s pirate if you can).
Rozemarijn shows you don't have to wear a dress to look glam. Check out the full gallery here.
Casual Chic Looks
A stylish top paired with jeans or a skirt can look chic and comfortable. Layered looks with crop tops and 3/4 sleeve jackets with matching pants are fun looks. Elevate with accessories on the wrists and nice shoes.
Seasonal Outfit Suggestions
Spring/Summer: Light, airy dresses in bright or pastel colours.
Fall/Winter: Warm fabrics like wool or cashmere in deep, rich tones.
Casey opted for an stunning evening dress to match the semi formal look of her beau Jon. Check out the full gallery here.
Avoiding Patterns and Logos
Busy patterns, stripes and logos can be distracting in photos and possibly date them. It's best to stick with solid colours or subtle textural patterns. Even tiny logos like on a Polo T (think Polo Ralph Lauren) can be distracting and a pain to retouch out of multiple photos. Keeping the colour and texture minimalistic will make your photos more timeless. Micro stripes and small checkered patterns don’t photograph well as digital camera sensors give them a rainbow effect called moire, which adds complexity in the edit. Horizontal stripes also can make you appear wider than you really are.
Keeping the Focus on you the Couple
By avoiding overly busy patterns and logos, you ensure that the focus remains on you and your partner. If you want to make to a bold statement with a huge ball gown, go for it, but also consider an alternative look to balance it out.
Accessorising Your Look
Accessories can enhance your outfit, but it's important not to overdo it. Their use should uplift, not detract from the total look.
Opt for simple, elegant pieces that complement your outfit without overwhelming it. For the gals this would be in the form of bracelets, necklaces, belts and scarves. For the guys, a watch with a matching band, bracelets, pocket squares or lapel pins.
If you want to look at a range of funky and fresh pocket squares, head to this excellent Etsy Store.
Melinda & Tim nailed their accessories, jewelry to match the shoes, a classy watch for him with black trims and splash of colour in the pocket square.
Hair and Makeup Tips
Your hair and makeup are just as important as your outfit. It is trendy to frame your face with a style, but if I can’t see your face or you are constantly battling the wind, keep the face more open. 9/10 times on a shoot or a wedding, I will be asking to pull your hair back from your face, so being more pulled back or over ear will be easier to manage. For the guys a semi gloss pomade is good to get some form, a little shine and lift. A pulled back style or a soft wave that is still malleable is ideal.
Professional vs. DIY
Consider having your hair and makeup done professionally for a real polished look. If you need connections to professionals I work with on the regular, I am happy to point you in the right direction. You have to remember the bar to entry to be a HMUA is low, so try not to skimp here and utilise someone with social proof. They can give you consultation on what works best for you individually and what is safe for your skin (i.e. allergens). Also a good makeup artist will know how to work with still photography. I have seen too many occasions where blending isn’t done correctly and if the tones don’t match your complexion; combined with the high contrast nature of photography, all the flaws will be amplified.
Pro makeup by Glam by Alexis
Ensuring Long-Lasting Hair and Makeup
Use long-lasting products that withstand several hours of wear and are resistant to sweat, and less likely to run if it rains. Consult a professional if you’re unsure.
Coordinating with Each Other
Your outfits should complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. This might be in the form of her with a cream coloured pants suit with tan accessories, he might be in warm grey chinos, tan boots, cream t-shirt and dark brown overshirt. Her in a little black dress, white accessories, him in black jeans, white t-shirt, white shoes, silver blazer jacket. There are endless possibilities here, so try taking to Pinterest for ideas and narrow down to the current year to get the latest trends.
Complementary Styles
Choose styles that harmonise without being identical. It makes no sense if she is in formal wear and he’s in casual wear. Also similar quality of garments can go a long way.
Raine & Chris's second outfit went a bit more glam to match the space they rented for the second half of their shoot.
Footwear Considerations
Your shoes should be both stylish and practical that matches the theme of the shoot. Ideally they will be new or freshly detailed and polished. If they are brand new, wear them around the house so you can wear them in for comfort on the day without them getting dirty.
Practicality vs. Style
Consider the location when choosing your footwear. Comfort is key, especially if you'll be walking a lot. Imagine scaling a hill in skate shoes or heels after it has rained!
Incorporating Props
Props can add a personal touch to your photos. This can be as broad as a whole car, a bottle of sparkling wine and some glasses. Once you have nailed down the theme, this will come to you easier. If you are going for a sunny theme on a beach, having some trendy sunglasses adds a little fun.
How Props Can Enhance Your Photoshoot
Props can add a fun, personal element to your photos. This is of course dependent on your theme, but no need to overdo it as it is more about you both and your connection.
Final Preparations Before the Shoot
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth photoshoot, so if you are coordinating a hair and makeup trial with the shoot, make sure they are confirmed on when they start and need to be finished by. Also check your travel time to the location, what parking or transport options there are and if you need to walk anywhere to meet me.
Doing a Dress Rehearsal
Try on your outfits beforehand to make sure everything fits, you can move properly in them and look good together.
Last-Minute Tips and Checks
Ensure all clothing is clean and pressed, no stray threads or holes and bring along any necessary touch-up items in a small pouch with a carabiner so I can hang it off my camera bag to keep your hands free.
Sophisticated style with a little black dress for Ruby & semi formal for Eugene
Conclusion
Choosing the right outfit for your engagement photoshoot is all about finding a balance between style and comfort, coordinating with your partner, and reflecting your personalities. By considering the location, season, and theme of your shoot, you'll be well on your way to selecting the perfect outfits. Plan ahead of time and consider retail shops are months ahead in their seasonal ranges, so sometimes you can pick up some clearance specials of outgoing styles. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and have fun capturing this special moment in your lives.
FAQs
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Yes I can help design a photoshoot idea for sure, I need to know the basics of what you love doing together, locations special to you and we then can start brainstorming. If the shoot location is in metro Melbourne and I am unfamiliar with it, I will scout it beforehand to make sure I can work with it. I highly encourage putting some thought into a theme or an activity as it gives the shoot more depth and meaning.
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Yes I can help you find a cool car for your photoshoot. I have a few connections in the car world, I sometimes come across hire businesses at weddings, I have a contact with a fleet of vintage Mercedes, another with a really classic Mercedes convertible, and I have old clients with special cars. If you are after something really niche, you can search auto clubs on Facebook and just start asking around. Be aware this service isn’t entirely free, while some owners will be excited to do this, they need some reward of some kind, and the ones that rent them out professionally will need to charge for them to cover time, fuel and insurance.
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It's a good idea to bring at least two outfits to your engagement shoot: one casual and one more formal. This gives you a variety of looks and ensures you have options if something doesn't work out as planned. If you are looking to change mid shoot, consider where you could do that for your comfort and protection of the garments. If you are doing a particular themed shoot in one spot that doesn’t warrant a change (such as at a beach), only one is necessary unless you want some colour variety.
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Absolutely of course you can include pets in your photo session! I am an animal lover myself, so I welcome it. Including your pets can make your photoshoot even more special and personal as well as giving you a basis for a theme. I have had shoots with cats as well as dogs of all shapes and sizes. Just make sure they are comfortable with the climate, strangers like me and well-behaved in the setting you desire for the shoot. For dogs it is good to have them groomed beforehand, a fresh collar or harness so they look at their best too. Getting some energy and their sniffs out before we shoot, will help them be more relaxed and I often like to have a moment of bonding with them so I can build their trust. Keep that lint roller handy too (I carry one in my car at all times).
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While not 100% necessary, hiring a stylist can take the stress out of choosing outfits and ensure you look your best for your engagement session. You might end up buying 4 different outfits between the two of you and might have trouble nailing down exactly what you want (Don’t worry, I do hear that all the time from previous couples). A stylist can provide professional advice and help you put together coordinated looks and find the best fabrics and cuts for your body shape.
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No panic if the weather isn’t looking great for your desired outcome of your photoshoot. If it isn’t cooperating, have a backup plan of where a possible alternative is, or if you just want to go for it. Sometimes rain can add an interesting element, but could not be the most comfortable for all involved. In the city of Melbourne there are lots of alcoves to shoot in, but anything indoors requires either a permit or permission. Discuss with me alternative locations or consider rescheduling if possible. You can book a backup rain day if desired if you are photographing in a season that has a higher chance of rain. Or just plan an indoor activity from the start if this is a concern.
Same colour, but different textures in tops to stand out against the green background for Melinda and Tim.
Great Outfit Brands & Shops
Sometimes you need a little inspiration or a legup in your search for the perfect outfit. Here are some links to great shops that my clients have used and for the boys, ones I have personally shopped at.
Ladies
https://www.carlazampatti.com.au/
https://www.saba.com.au/c/womens/clothing
Mens
https://calibre.com.au/
https://www.oxfordshop.com.au/
https://www.saba.com.au/c/mens/clothing
Remember, as you plan your special day, the right wedding photographer can capture the essence of every moment, allowing you to relive the magic for years to come. With my 18 years of experience, I can guide you through the whole process and offer the best advice for timing of your day, locations and connecting you to the area’s best suppliers. If you desire to test drive me as a photographer before you commit to a full package, feel free to reach out and make an enquiry. All engagement sessions are subsidised when you book a wedding coverage as an added bonus and you are under no obligation to hire me for your wedding.
To take a look at the wedding and couple folios, click below or to reach out to discuss having an engagement shoot head here.