What to Wear for Engagement Pictures

First off, congratulations! You’re engaged! For all our Ohioans, our photographers are now allowed to shoot YAY!! #covid We can finally get out and enjoy this Spring weather with our loved ones (with precautions). Whether you have had your wedding planned in your head (or on Pinterest) for months now, or just starting the decision making process, it’s time to start planning your “engagement session”.  An engagement session is way more than a way of procuring a professional photo to use for your “save the date” or guest book, it’s a way to further celebrate your love as a couple by capturing you guys authentically expressing yourselves in this season of life!

Clothing is a great way to showcase your style and personality, individually and as a couple. So how do you select outfits? Color or neutral? Casual or Dressy?  Ruffles or no ruffles? Here are some tips for “What to Wear” for your engagement session.

 

1.       Be mindful of your location.

Have you decided where you are getting your engagement photos taken yet? Will the shoot be taking place with your favorite city scape in the background, outdoors in nature or do you want captured on your doorstep or where you got engaged? You first have to decide where you want to go, ((and the weather too)). Location is a great starting point to visualize and create your outfit. Think of a location that means something to you and compliments your style + who you are. Was it your first date, or a location you can visit that still brings emotions flooding back? Lock it in! Then start thinking about the surroundings in that location to be sure not to choose colors that would clash. Some people may opt to wear neutral tones, or clothing that isn’t “too loud or busy”. But bold and bright prints can be fun and a great reflection of you! We often recommend focusing more on textures such as leather, lace, or (faux) fur to add a visual pop and keeping colors more neutral.

2.       Switch it up.

Depending on what is included in your engagement photo package with your photographer, you might have the option to have two outfits for your shoot. One that is more formal, refined and “classic”, while the other is casual and fun. Both can be equally as expressive and polished, while serving multiple purposes. Remember, you can use these photos in so many different settings such as save the dates, bridal showers and engagement parties. You can also frame some for your family, and have on display on your big day, so why not have some variety to choose from?! Be sure to discuss a place to do a quick outfit change and touch up in-between shooting!

 

3.       Be Comfortable. Be timeless.

What is most important is capturing that synergy between both of you. To really highlight who you two are as a couple, you need to be comfortable. The last thing you want is to be fidgeting with your wardrobe (think strapless bra, skirt/shorts hiking up, new heels) the whole time and feel uncomfortable. Look for complementary colors to achieve a coordinated look and create a timeless photo. An easy way to achieve that is by selecting neutrals and planning your looks together. Try hanging both outfits side by side and ask yourself if you genuinely like them together. If you need additional assistance or a professional opinion, ask us! We love helping our couples choose their outfits and help cultivate the initial vibe of your wedding!

4.       Accessories complete your look.

Accessories like jewelry and shoes are some small details that complete your look. (( For all the babes out there who have started planning your wedding, think invitation suites, escort displays, napkin ties. All the small details we think about adding to give that extra touch of *you* to the day. )) Jewelry is a great way to showcase a piece of you! Maybe a necklace your fiancée gifted you, or a beloved family heirloom, your everyday jewelry, or something brand new! Accessorize, and don’t be afraid of adding your suede hat or chunky scarf if that’s normally your jam too.

5.       Be YOU

At the end of the day, you and your families will cherish these photos that will rise to the occasion no matter what!

For some, it might feel difficult or overwhelming to make wardrobe decisions. If the idea of making all these choices is daunting maybe you should reach out to a wedding planner! Rooted Together is a wedding planner based in Columbus Ohio that loves to team up with brides all around the world and guide them through the wedding process. What is most important to us is that you stay true to yourself, and not let planning overwhelm you + this season of life you guys are in. This process should be fun, not daunting! You can inquire with us by clicking here, and we will schedule a complimentary consult. OK! Back to your photos, if you are feeling frazzled or unsure, just take a minute to scroll through old photos of you guys and watch for an outfit you are proud of, or one that speaks to a favorite memory of yours. Just remember, it will all come together so grab yourself a bottle of champagne and start celebrating one great outfit at a time. Cheers!

 

 

Featured Image: D+R 1.9.21 DerksWorks