What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos (And What to Avoid)

1. Start with the Location in Mind

Before you pull anything from your closet or start browsing online, think about where your engagement session is taking place. Your location should guide your wardrobe choices—not the other way around.

Are you heading to the mountains for a romantic, windswept adventure? Think soft, flowing fabrics and earthy tones.
Are you shooting downtown, surrounded by modern architecture? Opt for a chic, minimal look with bolder contrast.
Shooting in nature? Creams, taupes, sage, rust, or soft pastels are always safe bets.

Calgary Tip: If your session is in spring or fall, layering is your best friend. Our weather loves to surprise us, and you’ll want to be warm without bulky jackets between shots.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

We can’t say this enough: please don’t wear matching outfits. It may feel safe to both wear jeans and white tops or identical plaid shirts (yes, we’ve seen it), but your photos will be much more dynamic if you choose complementary colors and textures instead.

Think of your outfits as a duo—they should belong in the same world, but not be exact duplicates.

Here’s a few go-to pairings that work beautifully:

• A neutral midi dress and brown boots for her, paired with a linen button-up and dark chinos for him
• A soft knit sweater and jeans for her, with a wool peacoat and black jeans for him
• A satin maxi dress and heels for her, with a blazer and open-collar shirt for him

Tip: Stick to a similar color palette but vary the tones—like sage and olive, or cream and tan. And avoid clashing patterns that compete for attention.

3. Dress Like the Best Version of Yourselves

The goal isn’t to look like someone you’re not—it’s to look like you, at your most polished and confident.

Ask yourself: “Would I wear this on a special date night or anniversary?”
If the answer is yes, you’re likely on the right track.

Here’s what helps elevate the look without overdoing it:

• Professional hair and makeup for brides (great time to test your wedding trial!)
• Trimmed facial hair or a fresh cut for grooms
• Clean, ironed clothes and polished shoes
• Well-fitted outfits that flatter your figure

Above all, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. You’ll be walking, laughing, spinning, and holding each other—you don’t want to be fidgeting with your sleeves or adjusting your neckline the entire time.

4. Should We Bring One Outfit or Two?

This depends on your location and the time we have, but a quick change mid-session can add visual variety to your final gallery.

We typically suggest:

• Look One: Casual and cozy — think sweaters, jeans, scarves, layers
• Look Two: Dressy and dramatic — a maxi dress, heels, blazer, or suit jacket

Having a wardrobe shift lets you show different sides of your relationship: playful and everyday, then elevated and romantic.

Calgary Tip: If we’re venturing into the mountains or a trail, make sure one of your outfits works with the terrain. No one wants to climb rocks in stilettos!

5. Say Yes to Texture and Movement

Some of the most breathtaking engagement photos come from outfits that move with you—dresses that flow in the wind, scarves that flutter as you walk, or fabrics with visible texture that catch the light.

Great examples include:

• Chiffon, tulle, or silk skirts
• Knits, cable sweaters, or soft flannels
• Lace, embroidery, or linen blends

Avoid stiff or shiny fabrics (like satin blouses or structured suits) unless they’re tailored and intentional. And keep in mind that movement = emotion. If your outfit flows as you spin or walk, your photos come to life.

6. What to Avoid (Trust Us on These)

After years of photographing couples in all kinds of outfits, we’ve put together a short list of things to steer clear of:

❌ Neon or ultra-bright colors – They can cast unflattering tones on your skin and clash with natural scenery.
❌ Loud patterns or logos – They pull focus from your faces and your connection.
❌ Matching plaid shirts or identical colors – It flattens the visual interest.
❌ Unfitted or wrinkled clothing – Slouchy looks or bunched sleeves aren’t flattering.
❌ Heels on rocky ground – If you can’t walk in it, leave it. Bring a backup pair if needed.
❌ Anything uncomfortable – It will show in your face and body language. Confidence is the most photogenic thing you can wear.

7. Don’t Forget the Little Extras

Sometimes the best details are the ones that weren’t planned.

Bring along a few extras to play with:

• A neutral blanket to wrap up in
• A bouquet (dried florals or something simple from a local florist)
• A wide-brim hat or cozy scarf
• A bottle of champagne to pop
• Props that reflect your personality—coffee cups from your first date, your dog, or even a shared book

These little items add personality and story to your gallery without being cheesy or forced.

8. Trust Your Photographer

We’re here to guide you every step of the way. From helping you choose the perfect shoot location to offering feedback on outfits, we take pride in making sure our couples feel comfortable, confident, and taken care of.

If you’re ever unsure, just send us photos of your outfit options—we’re always happy to help.

Remember: your engagement session should be fun. It’s a chance to document this once-in-a-lifetime season with genuine laughter, quiet moments, and a whole lot of love. The outfit just helps make the whole thing shine.

You’re Going to Look Amazing

At the end of the day, it’s not about what you’re wearing—it’s about how you feel. When you’re dressed in something that feels true to you and you’re wrapped up in each other, the magic happens naturally.

So wear something that makes you feel confident. Choose pieces that reflect your style. And trust your photographer to bring it all to life.

We can’t wait to capture your story.

📌 Ready to Plan Your Engagement Session?

We help every couple style a session that reflects their personality and love story. Whether you’re dreaming of a windswept mountain shoot or a cozy date-night vibe, we’ve got the vision (and the experience) to make it happen.

👉 Reach out today to book your engagement session →

✨ Want More Wedding Planning Tips? Start Here:

• A Timeline Guide for Stress-Free Wedding Photography Coverage
• 2025 Calgary Wedding Photography Trends Every Bride Needs to Know
• How to Choose the Right Wedding Venue in Calgary

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