Congratulations! You've booked your engagement photoshoot!
Now comes the scary part... planning your outfits! *dun dun DUNNN*
Don't worry, it's actually not as hard as it seems. As a photographer, I put a lot of emphasis on the clothes that you decide to wear because I truly do believe that they will make all the difference in your final gallery. However, the endless amount of options can be overwhelming, so here's a little insight from a pro.
In this blog, I'll teach you...
- the importance of your base outfit
- what colors to choose
- and how to create two outfits out of one!
It's important to take the time to plan your outfits. Not only will you feel confident, but it truly can take your photos from good to great. And why wouldn't you want great photos? Being intentional with your outfits will...
- ensure cohesiveness between you and your environment
- increase the quality of the images
- and give you the variety you want in your gallery
Pretty soon, you'll be putting together your perfect engagement photoshoot outfits with ease.
Table of Contents
- Your Base Outfit
- Pops of Color
- Layering and Accessorizing
- Textures and Patterns
Your Base Outfit
We're going to go back to basics for a second. Your base is the very start of your whole look. It's what makes everything else you wear come together perfectly. Although it may seem simple, don't overlook it.
Your base outfit is just what it sounds like: it's the foundation for the rest of your outfit For example, jeans and a t-shirt is a base outfit. A dress is also a base outfit. No accessories, no nothing. (Don't worry, we'll get there). Your base is the jumping off point for all of that.
You want your base to be neutral and flattering. Something that you know and love! Who wants to wear something they are unsure about? Especially when getting their photo taken! Your favorite denim and a white t-shirt. *Chefs kiss*. That simple dress that hugs you in just the right way, in all the right places? Absolutely.
Once you know what feels good on your body, you need to know what colors to choose. I know that neutral had it's moment, BUT we're not quite done with it yet. Don't forget, this is just the base. For these items, you want to stick to these colors: white/cream, denim, browns, black. They look good with everything, look great on everyone. The best thing is, I know that you have these in your closet already!
Now that you have your base outfit on, let's choose your pop of color...
Pops of Color
You want yourself to pop against the background so it's time to embrace color and have fun with your clothes again!
When choosing your pop of color, you're going to choose what you think looks best with the environment you're going to be in for your photoshoot. Being a photographer from the Pacific Northwest, I've found that the four colors below are going to look great with any of your average backgrounds here.
Bolds and yellows will really help you stand out among the greens and blues. Wearing bold blues and greens will look cohesive with the background while still being bright enough to pop. Be mindful of what shades you choose.
This step is not about choosing any items of clothing, you're just planning what colors you're going to add to your base outfit.
Now that you've chosen your pop of color, let's accessorize!
Layering and Accessorizing
Now you can start grabbing for the fun stuff! These items can either already be in your closet, or if you're going to buy any new items, this is where I encourage you to do so.
Remember that base outfit you picked out? Well, surprise! That's actually your Outfit #1. You know that it already looks good on you and it's a simple tried and true. Layering and accessorizing is how we're going to easily build your Outfit #2.
I always encourage having two outfits during my engagement sessions so you get variety throughout your gallery. It's like getting two photoshoots out of one! I'm all about making sure you get the absolute most out of your money and time.
Now, you're going to remember your pop(s) of color you chose, find layering pieces and accessories that match your vibe, and build those onto your base outfit.
These items could be jackets, sweaters, hats, beanies, shoes, vests, etc. Anything that you're adding onto your Outfit #1. If I were to look in my closet for these items right now, I could grab my red coat or my yellow beanie. If I was going to shop for a new item, I could pick a cobalt blue ball cap or a green sweater.
You only need 1-2 pops of color in order to make yourself stand out. Any other accessories you choose to add, stick to the neutral colors that you used for your base outfit. Then you won't overwhelm your outfit and be distracting.
Here's an example photo of me from when I last took some headshots. I'll break down my outfits for you:
Base: dark denim jeans, white t-shirt.
Pop of Color: red
Layers and Accessories: Red coat, cream colored hat, cream colored boots
And just like that... you have your second outfit!

Textures and Patterns
Being intentional about the textures in your outfit will help add that little something *extra*. It's also a great way to communicate the season and weather.
Warm weather textures: linen and silk
Cold weather textures: knit, wool, or velvet
When it comes to patterns, they usually aren't my favorite. I tend to stick to solid colors. But, if you would like to add patterns into your outfits, stay simple. You don't want it to be distracting. Especially, stay away from big logos.
Be aware of the environment that you will be taking photos in. If you're going to be in a flower field, you probably want to avoid a floral pattern. You want to make sure you stand out, not blend in!
Great Examples












Now You Can Build Your Own Perfect Engagement Photoshoot Outfit!
You now have all of my favorite tips and tricks when it comes to building an outfit for an engagement photoshoot. You can apply this same technique to any type of photoshoot whether that's maternity, family, or portraits.
The most important thing is to build an outfit that you love. If you're feeling cute and confident, your photos will show it!
My engagement sessions are complementary with both of my wedding photo packages - see them here. I not only want you to be able to get the most out of your wedding experience, but it's important for you to get some practice in front of the camera, and for us to build our relationship in person, before your wedding day.
Still Looking For An Engagement Photographer?
I would love to help capture this special and exciting time for you! Reach out here to schedule yours!