What To Wear For Your New York Engagement Photoshoot

What To Wear For Your Engagement Photos

When it comes to planning outfits for your New York engagement shoot, often times people don't know wear to start. That's why I'm here to share my tips on how to plan the perfect outfit for your New York engagement shoot!

Photography: Rajotte Photo

Location & Season

This is step one. First - where will your shoot take place? If your New York engagement shoot is at a museum, nice restaurant, or a beautiful garden - you're going to want something more formal. If your session will be taking place in an open field, beach, or park, you might want something more casual. For city shoots, you can take it in either direction depending on your preferred vibe - casual or dressy!

See below for some different outfits that well complimented the location chosen!

You'll also want to consider the time of year and temperature. You're not going to want to wear a mini cocktail dress in the middle of January, or a sweater in summer!

For cold weather (winter) formal engagement sessions, I recommend long dresses or pants suits with beautiful peacoats to stay warm. For cold weather casual sessions, I recommend jeans and a jacket (peacoats still work for this too, but so can a cute puffer jacket) logo and pattern-free sweatshirts, hats, etc.

For mild weather (late spring/early fall) formal engagement sessions, you can wear a dress or pants suit and bring long sleeves in case you catch a little chill. For casual, neutral t-shirts and jeans with neutral sneakers! And a sweatshirt, just in case.

For hot weather (summer) formal engagement sessions, mini cocktail dresses or slacks with a short-sleeved top work beautifully. For casual, a sundress or jeans and a t-shirt/tanktop! I always recommend avoiding shorts, even in summer - with the exception of beach sessions (think bikini and shorts), shorts can tend to look tacky in photos.

Colors

When in doubt - neutrals always photograph well. I do love a good pop of color, but if you struggle with coordinating colors, you are always safe picking a neutral option! I usually recommend no patterns, with the exception of subtle florals. Stripes are a no-go because they look trippy in photos.

If you're a color lover and can't be caught in a beige aesthetic - here are some choices for you.

Spring & Summer

Light colors, but not too bright. Think muted pinks, oranges, even blues. Something that will not blend into your background but also won't distract the attention from you in the photo.

Fall

Moody colors. Dark green, maroon, burnt orange, etc. You can contrast your spouse and have them wear white or a light beige for a nice pop.

Winter

Moody colors still work but I would stick to dark green or red instead of burnt orange, black is great too.

I do love a bright or rich-colored outfit. Like hot pink or ruby red. Just keep in mind that if you choose such a bold statement color, it has to be done right! Your spouses outfit must compliment you, as well as the location and lighting. Otherwise, you might not love your engagement photos. I'm happy to offer guidance on what will and won't photograph well for all of my clients!

If you are looking for a Non-Traditional New York wedding photographer who share your love for unique and alternative fashion - feel free to browse my galleries and contact me here!