Outfit Tips for Your Vancouver Engagement Photoshoot
Getting ready for your engagement session can feel a bit nerve-wracking, especially when you want to look your best on camera. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it laid back, here are some simple tips to help you look and feel great during your shoot.
Wear What Feels Like You
The most important thing is to wear something that feels like you. If you’re uncomfortable in your clothes, it’ll show in your photos. Go with your gut and wear something you feel good in.
Most couples bring two outfits. One is more casual, like something you’d wear on a date. The other is a little more elevated. Starting with the casual one helps you ease into things, then you can switch it up halfway through.
If dressing up is your thing, go for it. Long flowy dresses always look beautiful in photos, especially when there’s a little breeze. But if that’s not your style, no pressure. The best photos happen when you feel like yourself.
How to Coordinate Outfits
Instead of matching exactly, try to coordinate colors. Wearing the same color top or full matching outfits can make the photos look flat. A good combo could be one person in a soft blush dress with neutral heels, and the other in a navy coat with grey or khaki pants and brown shoes. Maybe a blush pocket square to tie it all together.
Lighter tones and muted shades look great with Vancouver’s natural environment. Bold colors can work, but they might pull attention away from your faces. If you want a pop of color, add it in a small accent. Keep the focus on your connection.
Dress for Confidence
If there’s anything you’re self-conscious about, wear something that helps you feel good. Here are a few tips that usually help:
- Clothes that fit well and show your shape usually look better than loose or baggy outfits
- Three-quarter sleeves are great if you don’t love showing your arms
- Closed-toe heels help elongate your legs and look more polished
- If you’re wearing heels, bring comfy shoes for walking between spots
- Make sure your shoes don’t mess with your height difference or make you feel off
At the end of the day, you look great. Feeling good in what you wear is what matters most.
Add Personal Details
Accessories like jackets, scarves, or jewelry can add personality without needing a full outfit change. Layers always photograph well and give you something to move or play with.
If you’re wearing patterns, keep them soft and subtle. Avoid big logos or graphics since they can be distracting.
And a quick tip for the guys, empty your pockets. You don’t want your phone or keys showing through in every photo.
Consider Pro Hair and Makeup
Getting your hair and makeup done professionally can take a lot of pressure off. If your wedding is local, this is a perfect time to do your makeup trial and see how it photographs.
Also, your hands and ring will be in some close-up shots. A clean ring and a quick manicure go a long way.
Outfit Tips for the Guys
Long pants and closed-toe shoes always look more put together. Suit pants, dress pants, or chinos work great. Brown leather shoes pair with almost anything.
Try to match your partner’s level of formality so everything looks cohesive. Layers like a blazer or vest can add dimension. Little details like watches, belts, or pocket squares are a nice way to tie in your colors without overdoing it.
Things to Bring
Here’s a quick list of what’s helpful to bring to your session:
- Comfortable shoes if you’re wearing heels
- A second outfit and shoes if you plan to change
- Some makeup for touch-ups
- A water bottle if it’s hot out
- A jacket or cover-up if it’s chilly
Bringing Pets to Your Session
Thinking of bringing your dog or another furry friend? Yes please. Pets add so much joy and personality to your session. It’s not always easy to include them in your wedding, so this is a great chance to get some amazing photos with them. Just bring some treats, a leash, and maybe a friend to help out between shots.
Final Thoughts
This might seem like a lot, but the most important thing is to wear something that makes you feel good and just enjoy the experience. Make a date out of it. Grab dinner after or go for brunch if we’re shooting in the morning. This is part of your story too.
These photos are about capturing who you are and what your relationship feels like. When you feel good in your clothes and comfortable with each other, that’s when the magic happens.
Before You Head Out
Take a quick look at each other’s outfits. If you love how they look, you’re going to love how it looks in the photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best engagement photo locations in Vancouver?
Some of my go-to spots are Stanley Park, Gastown, Granville Island, Queen Elizabeth Park, and the Vancouver Public Library. Each one brings a different vibe depending on what kind of look you’re going for.
When’s the best time of day to shoot?
Golden hour is the best. That first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset gives us soft, flattering light and a little extra magic in the photos.
How long is an engagement session?
Most sessions run about two to three hours. That gives us enough time to relax, do an outfit change, and shoot at more than one location if you’d like.
Can we bring our pet?
Absolutely. Bring treats, a leash, and if possible, a friend to help hold them between shots.
Should we do our own hair and makeup or hire a pro?
A pro can definitely help lower the stress and make sure everything looks great on camera. If you’re doing it yourself, try your look beforehand and take a few test shots to make sure you’re happy with it.
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