What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos
As a wedding and engagement photographer based in Washington, one of the most common questions I get from couples is, “What should we wear for our engagement photos?” It’s a great question, and one that deserves a thoughtful answer. That’s why I’ve put together this guide on what to wear for your engagement photos — to help you feel confident, comfortable, and prepared going into your session.
Choose Colors That Compliment the Environment
In the Pacific Northwest, we’re surrounded by soft, natural tones — greens, blues, grays, and earthy neutrals. Clothing in colors like cream, beige, olive, navy, and soft blue tends to photograph beautifully in this landscape. These tones don’t overpower the scene or pull focus away from you as a couple. They also reflect natural light in a flattering way. You don’t need to dress to match the forest or the mountains, but choosing colors that work with the environment helps create a timeless, balanced look in your photos.
Keep Patterns Simple and Avoid Logos
When it comes to prints and patterns, less is usually more. Subtle textures or simple patterns can add interest, but it’s best to avoid busy prints or clothing with large logos or text. These can be distracting in photos and often age more quickly. Solid colors are always a safe choice, and they tend to keep the focus where it belongs — on the two of you and your connection.
Dress for the Setting and Season
Washington weather can be unpredictable, especially if we’re planning a session near the water or in the mountains. Consider the time of year and location when selecting your attire. Layers are often a good idea — they add variety to your look and help you stay comfortable if temperatures shift during the shoot. If we’re hiking to a location or walking a lot, make sure your shoes are both practical and something you feel good in. The goal is to look and feel like yourself, just a little more dressed up.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
You don’t need to wear the same color or outfit as your partner. It’s usually better if you don’t. Instead, aim for outfits that coordinate well together. Choose a shared color palette and build your individual looks within that range. For example, if one of you wears denim with a white or neutral top, the other might wear soft greens or warm tones that complement it. A little variation in texture and color looks natural and helps the photos feel more dynamic.
Bring a Second Outfit if You’d Like Variety
If you're unsure between two looks, or if you want a mix of casual and dressy, bring both. A second outfit can add variety to your session, especially if we’re visiting more than one location or shooting at different times of day. Just be sure to choose pieces you can move in and feel good wearing — that confidence makes all the difference on camera.
Focus on Feeling Comfortable and Confident
At the heart of it, your engagement session is about celebrating this part of your story together. The best photos come when you feel relaxed, connected, and confident. Choose outfits that help you feel that way — pieces you can move in, laugh in, and be yourself in. Don’t worry about being perfect. We’re not aiming for a fashion shoot. We’re aiming for something real and honest, and your clothing should support that, not get in the way of it.
Still Not Sure? I’m Here to Help
If you’re still unsure about what to wear for your engagement photos, that’s completely normal — it can feel like a lot when you’re already planning so much. I’ve worked with many couples across various seasons and locations in Washington, and I’m always happy to offer guidance tailored to your session details and style. You’re welcome to send me outfit options for feedback, or I can point you toward examples that might help. My goal is to make the experience feel easy and enjoyable from the start. With a little preparation and a focus on being yourselves, your engagement session will feel natural, and your photos will reflect who you are together.