Is preparing for your engagement photoshoot amplifying those pre-wedding butterflies? If you’ve already found a partner and a photographer, the hard part is over. You’ll want to begin focusing on what to wear for your engagement photos and locations. Whether you’ve known each other since you were little or you’ve waited forever to find your Prince Charming, follow these engagement photo tips and tricks for pictures you will cherish forever.
1. Keep an open line of communication.
At the end of the day, these are your photos and you want to love them. Before your shoot, spend some time talking with your photographer. Give them a sense of your personality and let them know your expectations. Establishing a friendly relationship before the shoot will also help you feel more comfortable posing for the photographer.
2. Scout locations ahead of time.
Chances are, you only have your photographer for a short amount of time, so it’s important to get the most out of your engagement photo session. Prior to the day of the shoot, pick places that you feel you can be your natural selves, even if posing together isn’t something you often do. A busy street might feel awkward and uncomfortable. Quiet, special places that mean something to you and your future spouse will ensure the success of your shoot.
3. Plan your wardrobe in layers.
When putting together outfits for your engagement photoshoot, there are a few factors to consider, including the time of year, location and your distinctive personality as a couple. When you bring along extra layers, you can mix and match between locations. Colorful scarves and patterns can help add a tiny, chic punch of interest to any picture.
4. Wear comfortable clothes.
Being comfortable during your photoshoot will equate to looking good. Shoes that you can walk well in and outfits that you feel confident wearing are a must.
5. Don’t wear matching outfits.
Your clothing should complement one another. A good rule of thumb is to pick outfits that are in a coordinating palette of colors, with minimal patterns or textures.
6. Embrace your personality.
Have a favorite sports team? Did you meet at a formal event? A fun photo showcasing your shared interest or personalities is a cute way to celebrate your love.
7. Avoid logos and characters.
Don’t wear clothing with large logos, writing or characters. This is your love story, and you should be the main feature.
8. Consider your surroundings.
Neutral tones can work wonders against a vibrant fall backdrop, while brighter jewel tones will help you stand out on a beach or winter scene.
9. Prepare to improvise.
The adage goes that while you can plan a pretty picnic, you can’t predict the weather. You might dream about a perfectly clear, sunny day for your shoot, but you can actually get better pictures when it’s overcast. Don’t let a little rain get you down—after all, a drizzly day is your excuse to cuddle under an umbrella for a cute “we can weather anything” photo. Come prepared with stylish precautions against adverse weather, such as a chic sweater to ward off an unexpected breeze or your favorite boots in case of rain.
10. Practice posing prior to your shoot.
You want your engagement photos to look like the best versions of your soon-to-be-married selves. While you probably can’t (and shouldn’t) change your entire look prior to the shoot, you can take a few steps to make sure you look your best.
11. Elongate your neck.
By tilting your head a few degrees higher than you normally hold it, you can help eliminate the dreaded double chin. This will come naturally as you begin to pose because you’ll want to be looking lovingly at your significant other.
12. Try out different positions for your legs.
Step one foot forward or bend your knee with your foot on a wall to help create a dynamic balance and pleasing angles in your pictures.
13. Don’t forget about your arms.
Many couples take photos holding each other in romantic poses. Be aware of your arms while posing whether you’re hugging your partner or keeping your hands to yourself. If you’re posing in a solo shot, relaxing your arms or resting your hands lightly on your hips will help them appear slender.
14. Remember to smile—with teeth.
You’re about to marry the love of your life, so make sure your engagement photos radiate the happiness you feel. Closed-mouth smiles can look forced, so opening up your mouth a little bit will help your face look natural and happy.
Resources Related to Engagement Photo Tips
Marrying the love of your life is a wonderful experience. For pictures that truly capture your love, it only takes a little bit of work to make sure your engagement photo shoot goes off without a hitch. By planning ahead and working with your photographer, your thoughtful preparation will allow your love and personality to shine through to create timeless, romantic photos that you can use to create anything from save the dates to wedding wall art. For more engagement photo tips, browse our guides on when to take engagement photos and engagement photo costs for more information.
