After booking your wedding photographer for the big day, it’s time to start thinking about your engagement portraits. Choosing what to wear for those can really change the entire look and feel of your photos. I find that one of the most common questions I get is “What do we wear?!” Well, these pictures should be a fun and a slightly less formal version of your wedding day photos. So how do you chose? Here are a few simple tips to make your decision a little easier:

– Keep it to just 1 or 2 outfits total. A lot of times, we’re out photographing in a random setting by a beach or park with no bathrooms nearby, and you’ll end up awkwardly changing in your car or even just standing outside, so either keeping it to one, or switching outfits just once will save a lot of time and hassle. This also gives you the opportunity to have two different looks: one can be more casual (more “you”) and one a little dressier.

– Wear something that you feel GREAT in! If you feel your best, you will look your best. Self conscious about your belly? Don’t wear something form-fitting. Trying to hide some weird thing on your toes? Wear close-toed shoes. This sounds obvious but maybe it’s not. Taking professional photos can already make you feel self conscious, but choosing an outfit that worries you the entire time will not make you feel confident. The photographer’s job is not to edit you to make you look like someone you aren’t. Show up feeling good about yourself and that will translate to the photos.

– Show off your personality with your outfit choice! For example: I’m a bright and sunny person by nature, and I LOVE to wear vibrant lipsticks and cute sundresses anytime I’m in professional photos! I get clients who show up in jeans and t-shirt for their engagement photos because they felt that was more “them” – do what makes you feel like yourself! You’ll have plenty of formal photos on your wedding day.

– Avoid bright bold patterns (smaller detailed patterns look great!) or shirts with words on them. I can’t tell you enough how DISTRACTING words are in photos, your eyes naturally gravitate to that instead of the image itself and the people in it. But this doesn’t mean you should be afraid to be bold – bold is great! I love outfits that stand out and make a statement.

– Don’t feel like you have to wear white. A lot of my brides feel like they have to wear white because it’s prepping for the wedding day. But ALL of your wedding photos will be with you wearing white – so why not change it up for engagement photos!? White is actually my LEAST favorite color for engagement photos.

– Think of your location: match your clothing to that style. Doing photos downtown? Personally I love a crisp and fancier outfit paired with an urban background. Going to the beach? Ditch the shoes (especially the heels) and roll up the pant legs. Also, a flowing maxi dress would look gorgeous with the wind at the beach. Remember, short dresses do NOT work with wind at the beach. Trust me. Every time someone does not follow that advice, they always wish they had.

– Need something more specific? One of my favorite options is a cocktail/party dress for the ladies and a nice patterned button down for the gentlemen. Doing this classic combination is great for Save The Date’s and it keeps it classy.

– Not a dress person? That’s okay! Try something different like a patterned romper or a vibrant top or a cozy sweater. Clothing with a great texture (like velvet, or super thick cozy sweaters) always looks good.

– I love when the guys wear a t-shirt button down, one of those cute patterned ones looks GREAT for summer.

– Accessorize! Adding in little things like a floral crown or a hat can really add a fun touch to stand out and make your images more playful. Bring a cute blanket to sit on at the beach, a patterned flow-y shall to cover your shoulders in the winter.

– Most importantly – HAVE FUN AND BE YOU! The best way for me to take great photos is when you show me your true personality and be yourself, that’s when the photos are authentically you!

– Other fun things that you can bring: DOGS! Seriously, if you’re as obsessed with your dog as I am, they are MORE than welcome (actually encouraged) for photos! It’s usually best to bring a friend to help hold the pup for any photos that we don’t include them in, and also treats for bribery! Also don’t forget poop bags, I can’t tell you how many people forget the poop bags. (Don’t forget the laws at the beaches, Wrightsville Beach doesn’t allow dogs April 1-Sept 30 or it’s a $250 fine. Carolina Beach dogs are allowed AFTER 5:00 PM during that time of year.)

– Another prop that’s always welcome if you like the idea: Champagne! It’s fun to pop or explode for a few shots at the end!

– Need ideas on where to shop? My favorite local boutiques in Wilmington to search for engagement ‘fits are Modern Legend and Aqua Fedora in Downtown Wilmington. Shopping online? My absolute favorite is Baltic Born! They’re even great for bridesmaid dresses! 

For photo examples of my favorite photo session locations, click here! You can see what my other clients have worn at these locations and see what you like THAT MATCHES THE VIBE!