How to Prepare for Engagement Photos: From Outfits to Posing, Plus Tips for Stunning, Authentic Images!
- cloudydayweddings
- Jan 27
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 29
How to Prepare for Engagement Photos: What to Wear, How to Pose, and More
Your engagement photos are one of our favorite parts of telling your love story— and we hope that by the end of this blog, we can convince you to agree!
Our ethos here at Cloudy Day is that you deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your photos. That includes during your engagement sessions, of course! So that's why we think engagement sessions have two major benefits:
To build confidence in front of the camera: This is your chance to practice posing and feeling natural with your partner in front of the camera before your wedding day. You'll most likely learn what angles you do and do not like.
To capture who you are as a couple, right now: Ideally you only get engaged once— and we think there is no better gift to yourselves as a couple than documenting who you two are right now and commemorating this milestone in your lives.
In this blog, we'll share some of our best tips, honed from years of sessions with beautiful and diverse couples. Here's what we want you to know:
How to choose outfits that reflect your personality and style.
Tips for acting natural in front of the camera.
Practical steps to make your photos feel real- genuine, authentic representations of your love.
What to Wear for Engagement Photos
We want you to be as comfortable as possible while dressing up enough to feel confident for your engagement photos. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect outfit:
Comfort First: Wear clothes that feel good and let you move naturally. No one feels confident when they're being pinched or when they're tripping over a hemline. Try everything on beforehand to ensure your outfits fit well and feel great.
Highlight Your Favorite Features: Choose styles that make you feel your best. We love a sleeveless dress to show off tattoos or a tailored shirt that fits just right.
Match Your Look: Pick outfits that reflect your personal style and complement your wedding colors for a cohesive theme.
Think Beyond the Wedding: You’ll see these photos a lot—on save-the-dates, social media, and more—so wear something timeless and versatile.
Practice for the Big Day: If you’ll wear a suit or gown at your wedding, consider similar shapes for your shoot. A collared shirt with nice pants or a flowing dress can help you get comfortable posing in those styles.
No matter what you wear, test your chosen outfit beforehand to ensure you love how you look in it.
What to Avoid:
Logos or Crazy Patterns: These can be distracting in photos.
Overly Trendy Outfits: Choose timeless looks that won’t feel dated.
Uncomfortable Clothing: If you can’t move easily, it’ll show in your posture.
Our Recommendations:
Stick to soft colors, neutrals, or jewel tones.
Bring multiple outfits to create different vibes—e.g one dressy look and one casual look.
Accessorize minimally to keep the focus on you and your partner.
2. How to Act During Your Engagement Photos
Relax and Just Be Yourselves
The best photos happen when you’re just be comfortable and natural with your partner. Smile, laugh, and interact with them as if the camera isn’t there. Remember, the goal is to capture your relationship, not to look “perfect.”
Show Some PDA
Yes, you read that right—kiss often! Hold hands, hug, and get cozy with your partner. Mini make-out sessions give us time to capture lots of intimate, romantic shots. Move slowly and with intention; savor the moment with your soon-to-be spouse.
Trust Your Photographer
As your photographer, we'll guide you through prompts, poses, and moments of candid connection. If I’m not giving specific directions, just assume you’re doing it right! The key is to trust the process and enjoy yourself.
3. Additional Tips for a Flawless Session
Stay in the Moment: Engagement photos are all about capturing your love story, so focus on your connection with your partner rather than the camera. Laugh together, share private jokes, or reminisce about a favorite memory—it’s those genuine, unscripted moments that make for the most beautiful photos. If you feel nervous or unsure, just take a deep breath and focus on your partner. Remember: this is a celebration of your relationship, not a performance!
Plan for the Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to plan ahead. If your session is scheduled during cooler months, bring layers like scarves, jackets, or cozy blankets that can double as props. For warmer weather, stay hydrated and bring items like a stylish hat or sunglasses that can complement your look. Always have a backup plan for rain, whether it’s an alternate indoor location or a cute, clear umbrella for a playful, romantic vibe. Embracing the elements, no matter what they are, can lead to some truly magical photos.
Choose Meaningful Locations: Your location sets the stage for your session, so pick places that reflect your story as a couple. Do you have a favorite park, coffee shop, or trail where you love to spend time together? Maybe you’d like to return to the spot where you first met or got engaged. If you’re unsure, think about your shared interests. Love the outdoors? Choose a scenic overlook or botanical garden. Prefer something urban? Explore a vibrant downtown area with colorful murals and unique architecture. A meaningful location adds depth and personality to your photos, making them even more special.
Dress for Comfort and Confidence: Though this is touched on earlier in the blog, it’s worth repeating here: what you wear impacts how you feel. Choose outfits that reflect your style and make you feel confident. Consider the practicality of your location—heels might not work on rocky trails, and heavy sweaters aren’t ideal in the summer heat. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing will help you move naturally and enjoy the session.
Last but Not Least, Have Fun!This session is about celebrating your love, so let loose and enjoy the experience. Laugh at yourselves, steal kisses, and embrace any unexpected moments—those often turn into the best memories. The more you let go of perfection and lean into the experience, the more authentic and joyful your photos will be.
Final Thoughts
Engagement photos are more than just pictures; they’re a celebration of your love. By preparing thoughtfully and showing up ready to enjoy the experience, you’ll create images you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Need more guidance or ready to schedule your session? Reach out— we're here to help make your engagement photos unforgettable!
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