Photos by Cassy Velazquez Photography

Think of your engagement session as more than just a photoshoot…it’s a date night! This is your chance to slow down, be together, and celebrate this exciting season. You’ll already be dressed up, so why not plan dinner and drinks afterward to keep the magic going? Yes, you’ll walk away with gorgeous images for save-the-dates, your wedding, and Instagram, but more importantly, I want the engagement session itself to feel like a memory you’ll cherish when you look back on your engagement. And because I know choosing outfits can feel overwhelming, I’ve pulled together some simple tips to help you feel confident, relaxed, and ready to enjoy every moment.

1. Consider hiring a hair and makeup artist

I put this first because if you take just one piece of advice, let it be this: hire a professional hair and makeup artist. Makeup shows up very differently in camera, and a pro knows exactly how to enhance your natural beauty while making sure it lasts through the whole session. Brides often schedule their wedding makeup trial for this day, it’s a win-win!

2. No such thing as overdressed

An engagement session portrait is the perfect excuse to pull out all the stops. Wear THE shoes, buy that dress you’ve been eyeing, or rock a tailored look that makes you feel incredible. You’ve already made this investment in your engagement session, so take the time to wear something you look, and most importantly, FEEL amazing in! When you look your best, you’ll feel your best, and that confidence shines in every photo.

✨ Some of my favorite places to rent outfits for engagement sessions: Rent the Runway, Nuuly, Fashionpass.

3. Choose two contrasting looks (if your session time allows for this)

Most of my engagement sessions are at least an hour. As I already mentioned in tip #1, I am all about dressing up. If you only have time for one, I always say go with the dressier option—it photographs beautifully and feels extra special. If your session allows for an outfit change, I’d recommend choosing an additional outfit that is a little more casual. Think cocktail dress + jeans and a cozy sweater, or suit jacket + sundress.

4. Accessorize (beyond the engagement ring!)

Accessories are the secret ingredient to making your engagement photos unique, stylized, and personal to you. Accessories can bring visual interest to photos and tie everyone’s outfits together. Hats, jackets, bold earrings, statement shoes, even a bottle of champagne to pop, it all adds personality. And yes, furry friends count as the best accessory of all 🐾.

5. Mix patterns and solids

Variety makes your photos pop. Think subtly with the patterns, and try to steer clear of anything that will steal the focus of the image. And patterns paired with solids can create balance without pulling focus. Stick with subtle patterns rather than big and bold as these don’t photograph the best. Remember, the goal is for the focus to be on you and your beautiful souls so skip the neon stripes and giant logos.

6. Incorporate some texture

Textures photograph beautifully. Think cozy knit sweaters, ruffled dresses, fringe details, tulle skirts, or classic denim. They add depth, dimension, and movement that elevate your photos.

7. Clean that ring and get your nails done!

Yes guys, this includes you! Make sure you clean up those cuticles and get your manicure done. Your ring (and your hands) will get close-up love! I take a variety of images throughout your session – some wide, some close up, and everything in between. I believe that our hands tell so much of our story, from holding each other to popping champagne.

8. What not to wear

• Neon colors
• Logos with branded clothing (ie: nike, adidas)
• Apple watches, Fitbits, or hair ties on wrists (distracting and eye sore)
• Clothes that feel stiff or uncomfortable
• Phones and wallets bulging in pockets (they will show!)

9. Do a trial run

This should honestly be at the top of the list too. It is best practice to try on outfits BEFORE the day of the shoot. This will help you avoid going into panic mode right before heading to your photoshoot when you realize that your shirt is see-through, those pants don’t fit, these boots are scuffed, etc.! Try everything on before your session. Make sure it fits, feels good, and photographs well. Snap a mirror selfie or quick phone photo, you’ll see instantly if you love it or if it needs tailoring. Take the time and effort to curate your look and envision it in the space you’ll be photographed in.

10. Ask your photographer!

When in doubt, reach out! I love helping my couples style their session. If you’re feeling stuck on what to wear, reach out and I’ll do my best to help you come up with something amazing! Send me photos of your outfits or inspiration boards, I’m here to help you feel confident walking into your session.

Lastly, take all of this with a grain of salt. The most important thing is that you feel amazing in what you wear. If you feel good, it shows. And that’s what makes your photos unforgettable.