We all know how important it is to choose the perfect wedding dress. But not all of us realize the significance of an engagement shoot until the pictures come out looking less than perfect.
Indeed, some of us get so caught up in planning the wedding that we tend to downplay the importance of an engagement.
Your wedding is a grand affair—where you’re not just marrying the love of your life, but entertaining friends and family in a beautifully arranged event that celebrates the joys of love and commitment.
An engagement, on the other hand, is a private affair. It’s an informal but highly intimate precursor to the big day—capturing the initial stages of your marital bond.
So it makes sense why the bride and groom-to-be would prefer to keep it casual.
But before you decide to wear your khakis for the event, ask yourself: how casual is too casual for an engagement shoot?
Keepin’ It Real
As a professional wedding and engagement photographer, I’ve had many couples ask me “what’s appropriate” for an engagement shoot.
And honestly, the answer varies each time!
Here’s the cool thing about an engagement—it’s YOUR day; a day where you’re the host and the guest, the party and the band.
Now, you may think to yourself, “Well, so’s the wedding day”. But in all honesty, weddings are as much about your guests as they are about you—especially since you’re integrating your loved one into your family, who express their happiness at welcoming a new member to their clan.
Engagement shoots, while being relatively casual, give you complete freedom to dress as you please. So, to ensure a fabulous album, keep these tips in mind when picking an outfit:
Comfort is Key
Whether your photo shoot is in a park or at home, the beach or a ranch, you’ve got to make sure you’re comfortable throughout.
This means dressing up in a way that’s relaxing and fun, so that your photographer is able to capture candid moments of you and your partner being all playful and cute.
Be Authentic
Are you a bit of a geek? Maybe a little sporty—or altogether whimsical?
Don’t be afraid to express your personality through your clothes! Remember, this isn’t as formal as a wedding and you’re not obligated to “dress to impress”.
Add a bit of magic to your shoot with sentimental accessories—like a hat or necklace you wore when you first met your partner, or experiment with bold colors ‘cause that’s just how you roll!
Bring a Change of Clothes
No guests, no pressure!
Go all out on your engagement shoot by traveling through the eras with a stylish theme, and go back to basics with a classic outfit.
You won’t regret it!
For more ideas, check out my portfolio and get in touch for a fantastic shoot with one of the best photographers in Dallas.