7 Styling Tips for Your Engagement Session

When choosing the “perfect” outfits for your engagement session, it can feel daunting. Whether you and your honey are well-seasoned pros at taking photos together OR these are the first professional photos you’ve had done together, trust me when I say that these photos are about so much more than what you’re wearing. As a wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing so many in-love couples for their engagement photos. At this point, it’s safe to say I’ve nailed down 7 styling tips for your engagement session to make sure you’re feeling just as beautiful as you are! Let’s get into it. 

Styling Tips for Your Engagement Session

#1: COMFORT = CONFIDENCE

Yep, you read that right. My biggest tip for your engagement session is to wear something you feel comfortable in. While you may be tempted to go out and buy a brand new outfit – make sure it’s something you feel comfy moving around in.

I don’t know about you, but I loveee to explore with couples. Whether we are walking from our car down to the beach or hiking through the mountains, I want to make sure you’re comfy. The more comfortable you are, the more confident you will be. If long, flowy dresses are your thing, great! On the other hand, if the thought of wearing a dress makes you cringe, maybe opt for your favorite pair of jeans and a cozy sweater. 

#2: OPTIONS OPTIONS OPTIONS

Having a variety of outfits gives you the opportunity to showcase different sides of your personalities and allows your gallery to feel more dynamic. Think about how you’d like to remember this season of your life—maybe that means bringing a dressier look that feels timeless and polished, as well as something more casual that reflects your day-to-day style. A flowy dress or a sharp blazer can bring out a romantic, elevated vibe, while jeans and a cozy sweater might capture the playful, relaxed side of your relationship. Mixing it up keeps your session fun and ensures you’ll have a wider selection of photos to choose from later.

#3: CONSIDER THE LOCATION

Make sure your outfits make sense for the locations your session will be at. If you’re planning to hike around some mountains during your session, wear shoes that have a good grip (and that you won’t twist an ankle in). You can always change into other shoes when you get to your destination. And if you’re on the beach? Maybe consider running barefoot – because wool socks just won’t cut it 😉 

#4: LET’S TALK ABOUT STYLING COLORS

Colors are such an important part of putting an outfit together. When picking colors, think about neutrals – or as I like to call them, nature neutrals. We all know you can’t go wrong with neutrals. Cremes, grays, whites, tans – they all go well with pretty much any environment. BUT you don’t have to be monochromatic. That’s where ‘nature neutrals’ come into play.

Pretty much every color in the rainbow has a shade that could be found in nature. However, they are most often subdued and soft. Think burgundy instead of bright red. Forest green instead of lime green. These are just a few examples of tones found in nature; just tone down your color options if you’re struggling.

#5: THE TRUTH ABOUT PATTERNS FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION

Let me be the first to say that I am not against patterns. However, there is a time and place for patterns. My biggest tips for working with patterns? Only one person should be in a pattern. The other partner should be in a more solid, simple piece. 

There’s a big different between big patterns and small patterns. The smaller the pattern, the better it works on camera. Like I said, the focus of your engagement photos is on you as a couple – not your clothing. Simple, repetitive designs like stripes may work better than a large, loud floral pattern. The exception to this rule? Flannels. They’re always a go for me 🤩

#6: MATCHING CONTROVERSY 

Okay, okay. Usually matching is a “no-no” when taking couples photos. But there are definitely some cute ideas if you do want to ‘match’: wearing apparel from your university, your favorite sports team, or band. Ultimately, do what you feel best in and what suites you best as a couple.

#7: EXTRA DETAILS

I get asked quite a bit by my couples if they should get their hair and makeup done by a professional. The best answer I have would be “whatever will make you feel best, do that.” My personal opinion is that I want to look like MYSELF rather than  super glammed up version. However, if you wear makeup on the daily, and like to have your hair done, DO IT! 

Speaking of professionals… My pro tip is to skip the spray tan! Yep. It might seem counter-intuitive, but even getting a spray tan days in advance will still leave your skin with an orange tinge to it. Your natural skin tone will photograph best.

And one more beauty tip – CLEAN THAT RING! Your rock will be featured in alllll the close ups. Get your ring cleaned (and treat yourself to a manicure). You deserve it!

Additional Resources for Tips for Your Engagement Session

There we have it, folks. 7 Styling Tips for Your Engagement Session! Please remember that these are just tips – not hard and fast “rules”. When in doubt? Refer to Tip #1. Capturing your love and personalities is what your photos are about, after all. Looking for some engagement session outfit inspiration? Check out the sweet couples over on The Blog. And as always, keep up with me on Instagram (@lauraburnsphotography) for BTS and more!