I get the question, “What should I wear for our photoshoot?” all of the time. The most important thing about what you wear for your photos is that it is a reflection of you, your partner, or your family (whoever will be in the photos). Don’t try to be something you are not. If you usually dress up, dress up! If you are usually casual and “cool” then go with that style for your photos. The same goes for choosing location (another thing to consider when thinking about outfits).
If you are not sure what to wear for your your photoshoot, read on. I’m giving you all the photoshoot outfit tips. Ok maybe not ALL, but a handful of helpful ones. 🙂
Create Visual Elements
On him: Vests look great on men, as do ties, suspenders, or other accessories that create lines.
On her: Patterns are fantastic as long as they are simple, like polk-a-dots or stripes.
Pattern + A Solid
If one person is wearing pattern, it is best that the other is wearing something more simple. You don’t want to much going on!
On him: Short sleeved button up with simple pattern.
On her: Besides the print, texture is always great for photos. An easy way to create that is choosing a top or dress with ruffles, layers, or a fun cut.
Bold Accessories like Necklaces & Hats
If you usually don’t wear a ton of color, you can add a little pop by choosing a colorful accessory like shoes, a hat, earrings, necklace, handkerchief, or a bright lipstick.
“Chunky Shoes & Accessories”
It might feel like a lot in real life but it shows up in photos nicely. Generally, “chunkier” shoes photograph better than dainty strappy sandals. Same goes with jewelry and other accessories. Chunky shows up in photos better than delicate.
On Him: A plaid button up and a vest
On Her: A chunky necklace and boots
Red & Orange Tones
Red tones look great at the beach, in the desert, in an urban landscape… just about anywhere.
On Him: A classic white collared shirt, jeans rolled up
On Her: A bold colored dress OR something a little more “fun” with polka dots.
Pastels for a softer look.
On Him: Bold colored shorts, a white t-shirt and a short sleeved button up.
On Her: A flowing tank top and jean shorts. Shoes off in the sand usually looks the best. Because really, who wears shoes in the sand?
Neutrals are Classic & Timeless
If color isn’t your thing, stick to neutrals. Always dress within your style. The last thing you want is to be a hipster if you’re the Wall Street guy.
This couple was sweet and simple. Notice no accessories, except for the handkerchief in his suit pocket, which makes a nice focal point.
On Him: A classic suit & a pocket square.
On Her: A simple, white dress, no accessories
Don’t Forget to Bring A Second Outfit!
Many people will do a more formal outfit and then follow up with something casual.
On Him: A classic checked button up
On Her: A colorful, bold patterned, business casual, floral dress.
Soft & Feminine = Pretty for Pics
On Her: Can’t go wrong with a flowery dress. Soft and feminine.
On Him: A casual button up, jeans & no shoes. Perfect for shooting at the beach.
What to Wear for Your Photoshoot: Final Thoughts
Suggestion on Fit
What makes clothing look good is how it fits. The better something fits, the more shape you’ll have and the better you’ll look in what you wear for your engagement photos. Think fitted suit (hot) versus frumpy suit (eep).
Suggestion on Color
When choosing colored clothing to wear for a photoshoot, choose something that compliments your skin, eyes, and hair. Just because you like green doesn’t mean it looks good on you (green looks horrible on me). Everyone has their color. Mine are in the blue and purple family. If you aren’t sure what colors look good on you, ask a friend or email me. Color is the difference between, “That’s a nice dress” and, “HOLY SMOKES!.”