It’s always a little intimidating to have your picture taken. Even if it’s just a photo on a phone that is taken by a friend. We still want to look nice, make sure nothing is in our teeth, and that our hair is behaving. I realize that preparing for your engagement photography session can be a little overwhelming. Here are some tips for outfits and accessories because the prep should be as great of an experience as the session!

Clothing

• Don’t try to MATCH. Try to pick outfits and accessories that coordinate instead. If everyone wore the same exact color at their shoot, how boring would those images be?!
• Don’t be afraid to be bold. Accessorize and make your outfits your own. Scarves, statement necklaces, and fun shoes are always welcomed!
• Most patterns are actually ok. However, graphics are not favorable for portraits. If you’re wearing a pattern, make sure it’s not overwhelming and distracting.
• Check out Pinterest for some great outfit inspiration if you’re having trouble.
• Empty your pockets! Literally! You don’t want to have key chains or phones showing through your pockets. (This is for the guys especially!)
• Most often, couples like to have one casual, every day outfit, and then one outfit that is dressier. This will give your shoot two totally different looks. I recommend beginning with the casual outfit first!
• Make sure you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing. And ladies, if the top is super low cut, that will limit the amount of angles I can shoot from.
• Clean the ring! I love to shoot a few ring shots while you change outfits. The cleaner the better!

One more thing:

• Be on time! The sun is only out for so long! The later you arrive, the less time we have to shoot. And nobody wants that!
• Relax! You don’t have to be a pro at this! I’m going to help you along the way and it’s going to be a blast! Enjoy this time together and make a date out of it! Plan dinner afterwards!

All content and images in this post are copyright of Alayna Parker Photography and can not be used or reproduced without exclusive permission.