Grooming & Styling Tips for Perfect Engagement Photos

So, you’ve got your engagement photoshoot coming up—how exciting! This is such a special moment for you and your partner, and naturally, you want your photos to look amazing. Don’t worry, though; getting camera-ready doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I’ve got some friendly tips to help you prepare for your couple photoshoot so you both look and feel your best.

1. Plan Your Outfits Together

Let’s start with what you’re wearing. Coordinating your outfits is super important, but that doesn’t mean you have to match exactly (leave the matching outfits for a theme party!). Instead, pick colors and styles that complement each other. For example, if one of you is wearing something bold, the other can go for more neutral tones. Think of it as a way to balance each other out.

If you’re not sure what works best, try searching for “couple photoshoot near me” to find inspiration from local engagement photographers. They often have tips on what looks great for couple photography in your area.

2. Dress for the Location

The location of your shoot plays a big role in choosing your outfits. If you’re heading to a park or a field, soft colors and flowy fabrics look beautiful. For a city setting, sleek and modern outfits are the way to go. And if you’re unsure, ask your engagement photographer for advice—they’ve likely shot at your location before and can suggest what works best.

3. Grooming Essentials for Both of You

Here’s where the little details come into play:

For Skin: Hydrate and moisturize a day or two before the shoot. If you’re prone to oily skin, bring blotting papers or powder for touch-ups.
For Hair: Get a haircut or trim about a week before the shoot, so it looks natural. For long hair, loose waves or a polished bun are always great options.
For Hands: Yes, your hands will be in the spotlight! Clean nails are a must, especially for those close-up ring shots.

4. Accessories: Less Is More

Keep it simple with accessories. A delicate necklace, a classic watch, or subtle earrings are great additions without being distracting. For your couple photoshoot, the focus should be on your connection, not what you’re wearing.

5. Comfortable Shoes Are a Must

If your shoot involves walking or outdoor locations, bring comfortable shoes. You can always switch to your fancy pair for the actual photos. Trust me, your feet will thank you.

6. Be Yourselves

This is the most important part: stay true to who you are. Your couple photography should reflect your relationship, so don’t overthink it. Wear what makes you feel good and let your personalities shine through.

7. Work With a Engagement Photographer You Click With

If you haven’t already, find a couple photographer who makes you feel comfortable. A great photographer knows how to bring out your best moments and guide you through the session.

An engagement photoshoot is about celebrating your love, so keep it light and fun. Plan ahead, bring your best smiles, and enjoy the experience together. By the end, you’ll have beautiful photos that capture your bond—and maybe even a few stories to tell about the shoot!

Engagement-photographer-Blue-mountains1 — Engagement Photography by Rachel

What to Bring to Your Session

If you’re wondering what to bring to your session, don’t stress—I’ve got you covered. Let’s go over the essentials to help your shoot go smoothly and make sure you’re ready for anything.

1. Extra Outfits

Even if you’ve planned the perfect outfit, bringing an extra one (or two!) is always a good idea. Why? First, it gives you variety in your photos. Second, life happens—spills, stains, or even a change in location might call for a quick swap. Try to choose outfits that complement each other and the setting. For example, one dressy option and one casual look work great for versatility.

2. Comfortable Shoes

Trust me on this one: even if your fancy heels or shiny loafers are part of your look, pack a pair of comfy shoes for walking between shots. You can always change back into your stylish shoes when it’s time to pose.

3. Hair and Makeup Touch-Ups

You don’t need to bring your entire makeup bag, but a few basics can help you stay fresh throughout the shoot. Pack powder to reduce shine, lipstick for touch-ups, and maybe a small mirror. A hairbrush or comb and some hair ties are also great for quick fixes if the wind gets involved.

4. Accessories and Props

Accessories can really elevate your look. Think statement jewelry, a chic hat, or a stylish scarf—whatever fits your vibe. Props are another fun addition. For engagement shoots, bring something meaningful like a picnic setup, a bouquet, or even your favorite coffee mugs. Personal touches like these make your photos unique and reflect your personality.

5. Water and Snacks

It’s easy to forget, but staying hydrated and energized is important, especially if your session is a long one or involves multiple locations. Bring a water bottle and a light snack (granola bars or fruit are great options) to keep your energy up.

6. A Blanket or Throw

This might not seem obvious, but a blanket can be a lifesaver—especially for outdoor sessions. It’s perfect for sitting on the ground, staying warm if it’s chilly, or even adding a cozy vibe to your photos.

7. A Positive Attitude

I know, this isn’t a physical thing to pack, but it’s just as important! A positive mindset and a willingness to have fun make all the difference. Relax, enjoy the moment, and trust your photographer to guide you.

8. Any Personal Touches

Think about items that represent your relationship or family. Maybe it’s a handwritten love letter for an engagement session, your dog’s leash for a pet-friendly shoot, or a favorite toy for a kids’ session. These small things can add so much meaning to your photos.

Ready to Shine?

Being prepared takes the stress out of your photoshoot, leaving you free to focus on what really matters—having fun and making memories.

Another mammoth task could be planning what to wear for your couple photoshoot? Don’t stress—I’m here to help! The goal is to make sure you both feel amazing and that your outfits look great together without being too much. Coordinating colors and styles as a couple can be fun, and it’s really not as tricky as it sounds.

Engagement-photographer-Blue-mountains2 — Engagement Photography by Rachel

Coordinating Colors and Styles as a Couple

Let’s chat about some easy tips to help you nail your photoshoot outfits.

1. Pick a Color Palette

Here’s a simple trick: stick to 2-3 colours that work well together. Trust me, it makes everything so much easier. Think earthy tones like beige, olive green, or rust if you’re going for a natural vibe, or soft pastels like blush, cream, and grey if you want something more romantic.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Okay, so matching outfits might have been cute back in the day, but now it’s all about coordination. Instead of dressing exactly the same, aim for pieces that complement each other. For example, if one of you wears a patterned outfit, the other can pick a solid color that ties in. Think of it like a puzzle—different pieces that fit together perfectly.

3. Think About the Location

Your location totally matters when picking outfits. If you’re heading to a park or a field, flowy dresses and button-downs always look great. If it’s a city shoot, maybe go for something sleek and modern, like a blazer or a little black dress. And for the beach? Light, breezy fabrics are perfect.

When you’re looking for a “couple photoshoot near me,” think about where you’ll be taking the pictures. Your outfits can really pop if they match the vibe of the location.

4. Balance Patterns and Solids

If one of you is wearing a bold pattern, the other should stick to a solid color. For example, a floral dress paired with a neutral-toned shirt always looks so good. Too many patterns can feel a bit busy, and you want the focus to be on you, not your clothes.

5. Add Layers and Accessories

Here’s a little secret: layers and accessories make photos even better. A denim jacket, scarf, or even a cute hat can add so much depth and personality. Plus, you can use these pieces to play around during the shoot, which makes for super natural poses.

6. Comfort Is Key

Seriously, if you’re not comfortable, it’ll show. Pick clothes that fit well and feel good to wear. If you’re constantly adjusting or pulling at something, it can ruin the vibe. Relaxed and confident always looks amazing in photos.

7. Be Yourselves

At the end of the day, your outfits should reflect who you are as a couple. Whether you’re laid-back and casual or you love dressing up, make it you. That’s what makes your photos special.

Let’s Wrap It Up

Coordinating for a couple photoshoot is honestly more about having fun than anything else. Start with a color palette, keep it comfortable, and let your personalities shine. And hey, if you’re still unsure, a quick search for “couple photographer near me” can give you tons of ideas. Most importantly, enjoy the experience—it’s all about celebrating you two!

For personalized guidance and to schedule your session, contact RachelHPhotography and let us help you create lasting memories with a perfect blend of style and comfort. Visit www.rachelhphotography.com.au or call (123) 456-7890 to book your session today. We specialize in proposal photography, couples photography, elopements in Blue Mountains, maternity and newborn shoots!