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Writer's pictureDeanna Reid

WHAT TO WEAR FOR ENGAGEMENT PICTURES | WASHINGTON, DC PHOTOGRAPHER


Washington, DC couples lifestyle photography

Engagement sessions are so much fun! You get to take amazing pictures with your significant other for things like keepsakes, save the dates, and your wedding website. It's a great way for me to get to know my couples and for them to get comfortable with my shooting style and being in front of the camera. One of the most important aspects of your shoot is deciding what to wear! Check out my wardrobe guide.


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BE YOURSELF

You should feel comfortable in the outfit you choose. You'll want to look like yourself, but your best self!


Engagement photography at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Washington, DC engagement photographer.

DRESS IT UP!

This is a great opportunity to be extra and wear something unique and classy.

Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to the photos. Services like Rent the Runway or The Black Tux will allow you to rent a dress or tux that would normally be $400-100 for as low as $20-40. They also include a backup size and sometimes an additional outfit, just in case something happens!


Wedding photography. Bride and groom dancing.
Engagement photography at the Lincoln Memorial.

COORDINATE, DON'T MATCH

As a general rule of thumb, wear solid and neutral colors. Stripes, patterns and text on your clothes draw attention away from your face. Your engagement pictures are about you, so your engagement picture outfits should keep the focus on you, not take away from it. Most of our brides choose their dress first, and then put together their fiancé’s outfit based on that. Choosing complimenting colors with your partner will take your photos to the next level! Coordinating your outfits makes all the difference! Don’t hesitate to consult with us on options for colors and accessories.


Wedding photography at Kimpton Lorien Hotel & Spa in Alexandria, Virginia.

CHOOSE APPROPRIATE & COMFORTABLE SHOES

Depending on the location of your session, choose footwear that matches your surroundings. If we're at the beach, stilettos would sink into the sand and make walking uncomfortable. Opt for sandals or going barefoot!

If you're wearing gorgeous heels during your session, bring a pair of flats to switch into while we walk to different locations. I don't want your feet killing you during the shoot.


Couples photos at the Lincoln Memorial. Washington, DC lifestyle photographer.

BRING PROPS

Fun activities make the engagement shoot even more fun and it's a great way to showcase your personality. Posed shots are great, but candids can be even better because you'll look more natural and it gives you something fun to do! Bring champagne to pop and celebrate. If you're shooting at a park, you could even bring props to have a nice picnic.



CHOOSE A LONGER SESSION WITH TWO OUTFITS

It's great to have a variety of images to share with your friends and family. Consider bringing two outfits, a formal and casual date night attire.


Engagement photography at Wilkes Tunnel in Old Town, Alexandria.

GET GLAM

We think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your engagement photos – and if you’re planning to do a hair and makeup trial anyways, the engagement session is a great time to test how your hair and makeup look on camera. Professionally done hair and makeup last longer than typical hair and makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind. Also, there will probably be times during your session when we’re shooting your hands holding or the engagement ring on your hand – which means it’s a good idea to clean up your nails before your session (this applies to the guys too!).


Engagement photograph at Leesylvania State Park in Virginia.
Same sex engagement at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. DC Wedding photographer.

LEAVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME

The single biggest snag we run into at engagement sessions is a couple running late and feeling super stressed about it (not to mention the arguments in the car on the way there about who made who late). It can make it hard to feel relaxed and lovey-dovey in photos the moment you arrive. Choose your outfits ahead of time, so you aren’t scrambling to find pieces that go together on the day of. Plan to have your hair and makeup done at least an HOUR before you plan to leave. And plan extra time for traffic and parking to arrive early! Early is better than late, always, you don’t want to miss that “golden hour” during your session


Engagement photography at Carlyle House in Old Town, Alexandria. Alexandria photographer.

HAVE FUN!


At the end of the day, you're spending time with the love of your life. You might as well enjoy it. Let's have fun!


If you haven't scheduled your engagement session, you can contact me via deannadidthat@gmail.com or visit our contact page.


I hope this information has been helpful! Thanks so much for reading.


Check out my tips for the best wedding day getting ready pictures HERE!







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