Planning your engagement session can feel exciting but also surprisingly stressful, especially when it comes to picking the perfect outfit. Trust me, I get it—I’ve been there too! As a Detroit engagement photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right outfit can make a world of difference. Your photos should feel polished, natural, and most importantly, like you.
My goal is to help you make this process easier. While I’m not a professional stylist, my experience behind the camera gives me insight into what works beautifully in photos and what doesn’t. With these tips, you’ll feel confident and look stunning, whether we’re shooting in the heart of downtown Detroit or by the lake at sunset.
Here’s everything you need to know about what to wear—and what to avoid—when planning your engagement session. Plus, I’ll share some examples from couples I’ve worked with who absolutely nailed their outfits. Let’s get started!
The Don’ts of Engagement Session Outfits
Let’s begin with some common mistakes to avoid. These might seem small, but trust me, they can impact how your photos turn out.
1. Avoid “Baggy Jean Syndrome”
We’ve all seen it—those faded, baggy jeans with worn-out knees. They may be comfy, but they won’t do you any favors in your engagement photos. Leave them at home. Instead, opt for fitted, flattering pants or jeans in a clean wash that elevate your look while keeping it casual.
2. Just Say No to Wrinkles
Wrinkled clothing can ruin an otherwise gorgeous outfit. If you’re wearing a fabric prone to creases, hang it carefully and change into it at the session location. This small step ensures you look polished and picture-perfect.
3. Pay Attention to Shoes
Your footwear matters! While you don’t need stilettos or formal dress shoes, your choices should align with the rest of your outfit. A pair of scruffy sneakers can feel out of place with an elegant dress or tailored blazer. Think stylish but comfortable.
4. Avoid Loud, Distracting Prints
Bold prints can overpower your photos. That black-and-white chevron dress might be cute in person, but it can be visually overwhelming on camera. Subtle patterns or textures work much better, adding dimension without stealing the spotlight.
5. Don’t Over-Match
Coordinating outfits? Great. Matching outfits? Not so much. For example, two people wearing identical stripes or the same shade of blue can feel overly staged. Instead, aim for complementary colors and styles that flow naturally together.
6. Skip Mismatched Formality Levels
If one of you dresses to the nines while the other keeps it super casual, it’ll look unbalanced in your photos. Make sure your levels of “fancy” match. For instance, if one of you wears a cocktail dress, the other shouldn’t show up in ripped jeans and a hoodie.
The Dos of Engagement Session Outfits
Now that you know what to avoid, let’s dive into what works. These simple tips can help you feel confident, comfortable, and camera-ready.
1. Choose Something Familiar and Comfortable
Stick to silhouettes and colors that you already know flatter you. Even if you’re buying something new, opt for styles you feel amazing in. Your engagement session isn’t the time to experiment with untested trends.
2. Test Your Outfit with a Quick Photo
Before the session, try on your outfit and snap a quick picture. This might sound silly, but seeing yourself in a photo offers a clearer perspective than just looking in the mirror. You’ll notice how colors, fits, and accessories translate on camera.
3. Consider Your Photo Goals
Think about how you’ll use these photos. Are they for your Save the Date cards? Will they be displayed in your home? The purpose of the photos can help you decide on the vibe, colors, and level of formality for your outfits.
4. Coordinate Colors Thoughtfully
Instead of matching exactly, aim for a harmonious color palette. For example, if one person wears a soft blush pink, the other could wear neutral tones like gray, beige, or navy to complement it.
5. Focus on Fit
A well-fitting outfit is a game-changer. Tailored clothes not only photograph better but also make you feel more confident. Baggy or overly tight pieces can be distracting in photos.
6. Dress for the Setting
Your location should influence your outfit choices. A sunrise session in Detroit’s historic neighborhoods might call for cozy layers, while a sunset shoot on Belle Isle could inspire flowy dresses or light linen shirts. Think about textures, colors, and overall vibes that match the environment.
Real-Life Outfit Inspiration
Every couple brings their own unique style to their engagement session. As a Detroit engagement photographer, I’ve seen couples make everything from casual chic to formal elegance work beautifully. Let me share a few standout examples:
- The Casual-Chic Duo: One couple chose jeans with fitted sweaters in neutral tones for a fall session. They looked effortless yet polished, and the colors perfectly complemented Detroit’s autumnal backdrop.
- The Formal Elegance Pair: Another couple opted for a flowy maxi dress and a tailored suit for their session at the Detroit Institute of Arts. The setting’s grandeur matched their refined style.
- The Boho Lovers: For a beachside shoot, a couple rocked breezy outfits—she wore a patterned sundress, and he chose light chinos with a linen shirt. The relaxed vibe perfectly matched the water and golden light.
Quick Tips for a Stress-Free Session
Feeling overwhelmed? These quick tips can help make outfit planning easier:
- Plan Ahead: Give yourself enough time to choose, try on, and adjust outfits. Rushing the night before will only add stress.
- Lay Everything Out: Include shoes, accessories, and even undergarments in your outfit plan to ensure nothing is forgotten.
- Bring Extras: Pack an extra outfit or two, just in case. Weather or last-minute changes might call for backups.
- Coordinate with Your Photographer: If you’re unsure about a specific outfit, feel free to ask your photographer for advice. As your Detroit engagement photographer, I’m always happy to help!
- Relax and Have Fun: Remember, these photos are about capturing your love and personality. The more comfortable you feel, the better the results.
Why Your Outfit Choices Matter
Your engagement photos aren’t just pictures; they’re memories you’ll cherish forever. They’ll hang on your walls, appear in your wedding album, and even serve as keepsakes for future generations. Choosing the right outfit ensures you look back on these photos with pride and joy.
When working with a Detroit engagement photographer, your outfit helps tell your story. Whether it’s a formal, urban vibe or a laid-back, natural feel, your clothing reflects who you are as a couple. And that’s what makes these photos truly special.
Final Thoughts
Picking the perfect engagement session outfit doesn’t have to be stressful. With these tips, you’ll feel prepared, confident, and ready to shine in front of the camera. Remember, it’s all about balance—looking polished while staying true to your personal style.
If you have any questions or need more advice, feel free to reach out! As a dedicated Detroit engagement photographer, I’m here to help every step of the way. Let’s make your engagement session one to remember!
