What to Wear Guide

This is the most common question I get leading up to Engagement & Couples shoots, so here’s my usual rundown in a much more organized platform. I’ve included some photos for inspiration from past clients + my wife & I. For photographers & readers who may be doing a shoot with another photographer, keep in mind that this is just MY taste & style. There is no right or wrong here!

Be True to Yourselves

My first tip is ALWAYS to be true to who you are with what you wear on our shoot. If you aren’t comfortable in what you’re wearing, you won’t be as comfortable with how you look in the photos. My advice is to consider your favorite outfit in your closet that you know you look & feel great in! My wife Hanna on the other hand likes to buy something new to feel confident in. We definitely differ in this opinion just as I’m sure some of you will, so take my advice with a grain of salt & stay true to yourselves!

Feel Free to Bring Options

I always encourage couples to bring two outfits each. Usually one more casual & one more dressy. You’ll see a wide variety of what people have worn for my shoots & that’s what I like! Each of these couples chose outfits unique to their personalities and comfort level just like you can. ALWAYS bring a sturdy pair of shoes that we can do a little bit of walking or “hiking” in if you know our shoot will require it. Most of the locations I take people to might include some water or dirt! If it’s in the heat of summer, bring an extra option just incase it gets sweaty. If it’s in the dead of winter, bring a good warm coat to bundle up in between shots or locations. Consider the fabrics you’re wearing that will look & feel great outdoors with some wind blowing or movement in the photos. We have room in the back of our vehicle, so don’t worry about bringing too much!

Colors & Patterns

The only real “rules” here are to consider what colors or patterns may be too bright, big, florescent, or distracting. Examples to avoid - a bright red will reflect on your partner’s skin. A big distracting pattern will take away from YOU (you know, the actual focus of the photo).
Consider the seasons & locations we may be in so you can coordinate colors with the environment. Safe bets are more neutral colors, muted, or earth toned colors, but you’ll see plenty of pops in my gallery of burgundy, mustard yellow, blues or oranges that I tend to like in all seasons! Blacks & whites can work, but more muted versions (not jet black or stark white) are easier to work with. Again, stay true to you! At the end of the day, wear colors you like & patterns that flatter you.

Incorporate More of Your Life

When staying true to who you are, I LOVE when people bring other elements of their lives! The best example I’ve shot so far was this couple who brought their mountain bikes & dogs. We had a blast incorporating the pups & hobbies that are important to them into their shoot.

I don’t like to use the word “props” because I think of all the old gimmicks from Pinterest, but if you two love to hammock, let’s hammock! Want a campsite & a fire? Let’s do it! Bring your dog, some pizza, a bouquet, whatever will incorporate more of your personality & will make you more comfortable.

Takeaways

This might be a lot to digest, so if you’ve made it this far & want a more concise bulleted version, have no fear!:

• Be comfortable, Be yourself. Wear clothes that make you feel good!

• Bring two outfits each, one more casual & one dressier.

• Feel free to bring extra outfit pieces for options or backup.

• Bring sturdy shoes you won’t mind getting dirty between locations.

• Avoid bright or florescent colors that could distract or reflect.

• Avoid patterns or items that would distract from your pretty face.

• Earth-toned, muted, or neutral colors are a safe bet.

• Consider the season & location for colors & outfits.

• Let’s talk about incorporating other things important to you!