Tips & Guides

What to Wear for Engagement Photos – Style Tips from a NYC Wedding Photographer

By Luke Amorelli Photography

Your engagement session is more than just a warm-up for the big day—it’s a chance to celebrate this chapter of your love story and get comfortable in front of the camera. One of the biggest questions couples ask is: What should we wear? I’ve put together this guide to help you feel confident, coordinated, and totally yourselves during your engagement shoot.

 
Couple walking under golden fall trees in casual coats and jeans.

The best photos happen when you feel great in what you're wearing. Choose outfits that feel like you, just a bit more polished. Think: the version of yourselves you’d wear to a nice dinner or date night.

1. Dress Like Yourselves—But Elevated

Choose outfits that feel true to your personal style—just a little more polished. Think of it as how you'd dress for a nice dinner out: stylish, put-together, but still comfortable.

 

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Rather than wearing the same colors, aim for outfits that complement each other in tone and texture. Neutrals, pastels, and earthy shades tend to photograph beautifully.

Great color pairings:

  • Dusty blue + beige

  • Olive + cream

  • Charcoal + blush

  • Tan + muted burgundy

 
Close-up of couple with clean, neutral-toned clothing

3. Keep Patterns Simple

Avoid loud logos, neon colors, or tiny prints that can distract or create distortion in-camera. Solid colors or subtle patterns tend to work best.

 
Couple wearing cool-weather clothing surrounded by autumn trees

4. Dress for the Setting

Think about where we’re shooting and match your style to the environment. A soft dress or linen shirt is perfect for the beach or fields, while boots or blazers might look great in an urban or architectural setting.

 
Couple in burgundy dress and dark suit under tunnel arch

A quick change adds variety to your gallery—from relaxed and playful to bold and romantic.

5. Bring a Second Outfit (Optional)

If you’d like to mix things up, bring two looks! One dressy and one casual gives great variety. Just be sure both outfits are easy to change into at your location.

 

6. Hair, Makeup & Grooming Tips

Close-up of hand on partner’s chest showing ring and manicured nails

Well-groomed, glowing, and camera-ready—small details go a long way in close-ups

  • Consider scheduling your engagement shoot the same day as a wedding hair/makeup trial.

  • Fresh haircuts, trimmed facial hair, and moisturized skin make a big difference.

  • Hydration and rest = glowing skin on camera!

 

7. Props, Pets & Personality

Want to pop champagne? Include your dog? Bring a guitar, a blanket, or a picnic basket? Yes, please! Just let me know ahead of time so I can plan for it.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t about looking perfect—it’s about feeling connected. Wear what makes you feel confident, be yourselves, and trust me to guide the rest. I’ll help with prompts, locations, and light—so you can focus on each other.

Luke Amorelli Photography

Contact me

Lukeamorelliphotography.com | @lukeamorelliphotography