Engagement
Planning for the Best: Engagement Style
You two have decided to have an portrait session, awesome! You’ve brainstormed locations, picked a date and are picturing all of the fun you’ll have together. There’s just one thing…you don’t know what to wear! Casual or dressy? Heels or flats? I am asked for style advice a lot in the spring and the fall when I have most of my engagement sessions here in Boston and in New York City. For this post, I decided to ask my clients themselves to offer advice to you. I could say many things about color, contrast and the way things flow in the wind, but I wanted to center this post around advice from my clients who actually went through their closets and pulled outfits to wear in front of the camera. I was so impressed with the variety of advice that they had to offer, I’m sure you’ll get some inspiration and direction from their wise words.
Geleen: Stay true to your personal style. For example: if you are more of a casual couple or a glam couple stay close to your element so you feel the most comfortable and confident. Before our engagement shoot, I pulled together some image inspiration of outfits, hair and make-up to give me a better idea of what my final look would be. In terms of outfits, pick silhouettes that are the most flattering to your body type, even if it’s not trendy. Also, pick colors that you are most comfortable in. Since I am short, I chose to wear heels to make me look a little taller and make my legs look a little leaner (even a tiny heel can do the trick.) As for makeup, make sure it compliments your outfit.
Jordan: I dressed for the engagement shoot by treating it like I was going to a very nice, but still casual dinner in New York City. To me, fit is very important, so I make sure my jackets and pants are tailored to my fitting. Also, It doesn’t hurt to read any fashion blogs, magazines, or websites to see how some men piece together certain combinations. Gather some quick mood boards and make sure you discuss the looks with your fiance. You want to make sure you compliment your bride but at the same time infuse your own personal touch.
Sarah: I wear a lot of dresses in my normal life and I wanted to make sure I wore something that was true to my style, really me and something that I was comfortable in – I think if you’re comfortable and happy in what you’re wearing it will show in the photos and that you’ll be more relaxed. I chose a black and white striped dress as I thought having something with a bit of a bold pattern would look really punchy and exciting in the photos around the city. I chose a big pattern as I thought something with little symbols or design might get lost amidst the cityscape/backdrops. In our massive extra bags on the day, I packed a black cardigan and a pair of flat Keds sneakers. These came in really handy during the day with you as alternatives where needed – it enabled me to stay comfortable throughout the shoot even with changing locations/weather. The cardigan was a MUST to keep me warm in between the photos, but also appeared in a few photos later in the day that I really like where James and I are kind of snuggling to keep warm. It brings back memories!
Ian: We had fun coordinating our outfits (and if it’s an excuse to go out and buy a new sweater, I’ll take it). The best thing that worked for us was actually one random item we brought- a red flannel blanket. It was a great prop and added a pop of color that really stood out in the shoot. I think most importantly, however, is just making sure you’re relaxed and having fun. You have to remember this is one of the most exciting times in your life. If you’re just there to have fun with your significant other, a skilled photographer is going to know how to capture the special moments. To make a long story short: forget the camera is there and have fun.
Stef: Damn, Ian killed it… the only other thing I can suggest to add is be open-minded and flexible. It was chillier than I originally thought so had to adjust my outfit slightly and still ended up so cute! Just have options and try to go with the flow.
I’m so thankful that these guys could pop in with with words of advice about styling your clothes for the photo session. I think the common themes from their responses were finding something that makes you feel comfortable to look and feel your best! Whether that’s formal or casual, black and white, or color- think about what’s true to your style and have fun! My approach to the engagement session is getting a little glimpse into your relationship as a couple, and making some beautiful portraits of you two and the energy between you. Let the clothes, and the location enhance that!
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