As a photographer, I want the couples who choose me look their best in the photos. The question I get asked sometimes is:
“What would you suggest we wear for our pre-wedding photo shoot?”
If you've been wondering what to wear and which outfit to choose for your pre-wedding shoot, this is the article for you!
You probably already have clear ideas about the outfit for the big day: the wedding dress with its accessories, the tie, the cufflinks and the suit for him.
But what about if you have opted for a pre-wedding photo shoot? In this short article you will find some look and style tips
to make your engagement photo session perfect.
Comfort look
The first tip is: stay in your comfort zone! If the idea of being photographed embarrasses you to the point of appearing awkward and unconfident
then don't invent looks that don't reflect you just to "play a role" or want to do something in particular.
Instead, choose clothes in which you are sure you recognize yourself in the mirror, a pair of jeans, a comfortable t-shirt or a casual dress,
something you already know and you're sure will enhance your looks.
Clothes suitable for the context of your reportage
If you have in mind a pre-wedding service that is different from the ordinary, choose something suitable for the context that allows you to be
comfortable but also to dare a little. Do you think of rolling in the mud, hugging in the sand, taking a dip in the sea or spraying yourself with colorful paint?
It won't be the case to choose expensive clothes or clothes that you care so much about. Also don't go overboard with too many patterns,
choosing neutral colors can be a great option. Look for clothes that match the palette of the season and the context in which you will take the photos
(by the sea, on the hill, in the vineyard, on a meadow, in the city, in an abandoned building, on mountains….). On the other hand,
brighter colors likes red, orange or yellow could stand out more in urban environments. Look at shots taken in similar places to see what you might like.
Themed clothing
If, on the other hand, you will perform a pre-wedding shoot that will highlight a specific theme connected to the wedding day,
you can choose a specific look, agreeing with the photographer both on the chosen outfit and on the designated places for the photo shoot.
For example, in case you have chosen a retro-style wedding with a vintage wedding dress, or a Disney-themed one or inspired by a TV series or film.
In the pre-wedding service you can start your fairy tale inspired by the mood of the wedding, creating a fil rouge.
What to know about looks and outfit
What are some other tips I can share in terms of looks so as not to go wrong with outfits? Here are some tips:
- Ask for a color consultation. For example, you could contact your make-up artist or the one you have designated for the wedding, who can give you advice on the colors that best match your face.
- Choose coordinated looks between you and your partner (sporty, casual, elegant, etc.) and don't forget the importance of the colors of your clothes. The important thing is to be on the same wavelength.
- Take care of your aesthetics, make-up and hairstyle, without exaggerating, with the most natural and simple effect possible. Hair up or down? Well-groomed beard or a wilder, more uncultured look? The choice is yours.
- Eye for details: hair accessories, suspenders, scarves, jewels and jackets can really make the difference, giving your outfits that detail you needed to personalize your look.
- Wear different clothes in order to change outfits based on the context and the location; for example, often with my couples we decide to take pictures in more than one location.
- Last but not least, shoes. Rely on good taste and keep in mind the characteristics of the location (high heels for walking in a historic center or in rocky areas are absolutely not recommended).
These are some suggestions for a perfect outfit during your pre-wedding or engagement photoshoot.
Take notes but above all think about getting comfortable and having fun!
