Quite often, prior to photographing an engagement session I would get a note from the couple asking how should they dress for the engagement session. I usually give some general direction, while being careful not to be too specific. I want the couple to look their best, yet wear comfortable, relaxed clothing.
I decided to post some very general directions to serve as a reference for any future couples. These are only guidelines, every couple should feel free to express themselves as they see fit.
1. Please dress casually and comfortably. Wear clothes that fit you well and won’t make you feel self conscious.
2. Colors are always welcome. Depending on the setting, colorful clothing adds great texture to a photogaph. It’s pleasing to the eye.
Black or washed our colors tend to wash out those of you with fairer complexions. Also black adds very little visual interest – color adds some warm to the cheeks, especially for women who don’t wear makeup.
3. With clothing, generally stick to solid colors. Stripes and/or mismatched patterns can be very distracting and can take away from the real focal point- you. Again this is a generalization. If you have that great polka-dot summer dress you have been dying to wear – by all means.
4. Adding a scarf or another colorful element can be an alternative to an all over colorful shirt or outfit. For ladies, jewelry can make a nice statement too, try sticking to one or two pieces – earrings and a great necklace or bracelet. All this in addition to the engagement ring off course!
5. On a sunny day, bright white can also be distracting and make exposure balancing difficult. Especially if the person wearing white has a darker complexion.
6. For men, if you normally shave, do so. Maybe get a fresh haircut and trim the day before.
7. Ladies I would suggest bring along your make-up kit and a small mirror to do any quick touch-ups if necessary. I know many ladies prefer not to wear any makeup at all, however I would suggest wearing a bit – a little blush and lip gloss goes a long way.
8. Dogs are welcome if they can be leashed when it’s time for pictures of the couple only. Pets can add some fun to the sessions. Couples tend to be a bit more relaxed and act more naturally.
9. If possible or desired, bring a change of outfits. This can add some variety to the session as a whole. Outfit changes gives the session a story like progression. Especially if an outfit change goes from casual to a little more dressy.
10. Have FUN! . This really is the most important thing. For many people being photographed is not always a fun experience – but it can be. I do my best to direct and create a relaxed environment, but the heart of it comes from you. Do your best to relax and enjoy each other and I will take care of the rest. The best photographs happen naturally, unscripted and bring out your character.
