Coordinate, Don't Match 

To look your best together, aim for coordination rather than matching perfectly. Wearing the exact same color and fabric from head to toe can make you blend into one another. Instead, choose a cohesive color palette and play with different tones and textures. This keeps your looks beautifully connected while letting each personality shine.

Embrace the Earthy & Neutral

Neutrals are the MVP of photography. Earthy tones and muted hues (think creams, tans, sage, grays, taupe, olive green, blush pink, dark maroon or navy blues) to keep the focus on your faces.

  • The "No-Go" Zone: Avoid neons or super-bright colors - they distract the eye.

  • The Skin Factor: Try to steer clear of super vibrant purples, reds, and oranges. These colors have a habit of reflecting "hot" tones back onto your skin, which can be a nightmare for editing.

Keep Patterns Purposeful

In the world of photography, less is usually more. If one of you is rocking a pattern (like a soft floral or a subtle plaid), the other should stick to a solid neutral to balance things out. Too many patterns competing for attention can make a photo feel "busy."

Stay True to Your Style

The most important thing is that you feel like you during your shoot! Please don’t feel pressured to dress up in a way that doesn’t fit your usual style. If a formal dress isn't something you'd normally wear, there's no need to start now. When you feel comfortable in your clothes, it shows in how naturally you relax and smile. Choose outfits that make you feel confident, authentic, and completely yourself.

Texture & Layers: The Secret Sauce

Want to add visual "wow" without adding clutter? Use texture and layers.

  • Layers: A denim jacket, a cozy cardigan, or a sharp blazer adds dimension and gives us more variety to work with.

  • Texture: Look for ruffles, buttons, lace, or knit fabrics. These little details add depth to the images.

Keep the Same Level of Dressy 

Avoid a style clash by ensuring your outfits share the same energy. A formal dress paired with casual sneakers or sandals on your partner just feels disconnected on camera. Pick a style level together - whether that's upscale date night or relaxed weekend casual.

Finish with the Feet

Shoes matter more than you think! Make sure your footwear is clean, comfortable enough to walk in, and appropriate for the location. Whether it’s a stylish boot or a classic heel, make sure it complements the overall vibe.

Don’t Forget the Details (and the Rock!)

Since this is an engagement session, we’re going to be getting some close-up shots of that beautiful new ring!

  • The Nails: You don't need a professional manicure (however, you are more than welcome to!), but clean, trimmed nails (or a fresh coat of polish) make a big difference in those hand-holding and ring-detail shots.

  • The Ring: Give your diamond a quick clean before the session so it really sparkles when the light hits it!


Motion is Magic

When choosing a dress or skirt, consider fabrics that have some "movement." Materials like chiffon, silk, or lightweight cotton that catch the wind or move when you walk add a romantic, cinematic feel to your photos. Stiff fabrics tend to look a bit more "static" on camera.

The "Wrist Check" & Undergarments

This is a small detail that makes a huge impact:

  • The Wrist: Remember to take off any hair ties, fitness trackers, or bulky watches unless they are part of your "look." A neon hair tie on the wrist is a tough thing to Photoshop out!

  • Watches: Do you wear an Apple or smart watch? Did you catch a little sun lately? Consider wearing layered/stacked bracelets to cover any tan lines.

  • The "Invisible" Essentials: Make sure you’re wearing undergarments that match the color and cut of your outfit (e.g., nude-colored petals or strapless bras). We want the focus on your beautiful smile, not a stray bra strap.


Dress for the Forecast

You want to look effortless, which is impossible if you're shivering or overheating in your outfits. For warmer sessions, prioritize light, natural fabrics like linen that breathe well and keep you comfortable in the heat. In cooler temps, think about sweaters, layers, and cold-weather accessories. It’s always best to build your outfits around the actual season so you aren't fighting the elements during our shoot.

Ironing is Your Friend

It sounds simple, but camera sensors are incredibly sharp—they pick up every wrinkle. Taking ten minutes to steam or iron your clothes the night before (and transporting them on hangers rather than folded in a bag) will save you from worrying about "wrinkle-vision" later.

Accessorize! 

Don't forget the accessories! A simple necklace or a favorite hat can be an easy way to switch up your look mid-session without a full outfit change.

Need a visual?
I’ve curated a Pinterest Style Guide full of my favorite color palettes and outfit combinations to get your creative juices flowing. You can check it out —> https://www.pinterest.com/eweddington/engagement-session-style-guide/