Photo Session Outfit Tips

Have a session coming up and can't decide what to wear? I created this post for guidance and I hope this helps you out!

Austin engagement session | Austin engagement photographer | engagement session outfit tips
Texas capitol engagement session

1. Wear something that makes you feel beautiful.
Look in the mirror at all angles and ask yourself, "Do I like the way this outfit makes me look?". Also, wear something that you could actually see yourself in. I once had a client tell me, "I don't know why I wore a pink striped shirt. I never wear pink or stripes!" Try to wear something that feels like you!
Choosing outfits can be difficult, but make sure you wear something that you feel confident in!

2. Say yes to the dress (if it feels like you!) Dresses always photograph well. Especially flowy dresses or skirts because they show movement and look beautiful! Dresses with sleeves are always a good option too! 

3. Have one casual outfit option and one dressy option to change into! I recommend wearing one casual outfit with jeans if you are interested in more poses with movement (for example piggyback rides!) You can also bring layers or multiple outfits if you can’t decide what to wear. Collared button down long sleeve or short sleeve shirts, blazers, or sports jackets always look great on men for a dressier option! Can’t decide on what to wear? Try out a clothes rental company for one month! Details below.

4. Do a trial run! This is a great time to schedule your bridal make-up and hair trial run or even a trial run of your bouquet. Adding a bouquet to your session can bring a pop of color and beauty to the photos!

5. Wear shoes you love! If you want to wear heels, pack sandals or flats to change into if we are walking a lot during the session. 

6. Avoid busy loud prints or super bright colors. Simple patterns and prints look great (like plaid or florals). Avoid very small busy patterns (like small horizontal stripes or small checkered patterns) because they can make your outfit look pixel-y. Wear a solid color if your partner is wearing a pattern. It can look too busy if everyone is wearing a pattern!

7. Stay away from anything too trendy that you might regret in a couple years! Simple accessories are best.

8. Wear colors that complement each other. Try not to match solid colors or patterns with your partner. Earth tones always photograph well. Make sure to try on your outfits together before the session!

9. Prepare for the heat or for the cold! Have water in the car if you are changing locations. Have a handkerchief or wash cloth for sweat! If it’s cold outside, bring layers to keep warm. You can add on or take off a jacket or scarf easily to make your outfit look different during the session.

10. Don't forget to have fun! Shake off those Austin traffic and timing worries once you get to the session and have fun! Some couples even bring champagne to pop or have a drink before their session to start the shoot off in a fun way and to help loosen any nerves! (This is totally optional) Overall, goofing off and laughter makes some of the best photos! I can't wait to capture your love!

Downtown Austin engagement session | Town Lake engagement photos
Austin engagement photographer
McKinney Falls Engagement Session | Austin wedding photographer | McKinney Falls photos
Downtown Austin engagement session | Seaholm Powerplant engagement session

Clothing Rental Options:

Clothing rental companies are a great way to find your engagement session outfit. You usually get multiple options to choose from each month and many allow you to cancel at anytime. I recommend ordering the outfits at least 2 weeks in advance before your session to give you time to figure out what to wear!

  1. Nuuly I love Nuuly and how simple their subscription is. You can cancel at anytime and the first month is usually cheaper. You get to try out 6 pieces of clothing per month. I recommend searching for specific clothing items by the highest rated filter. Here is a link to $10 off!

  2. Rent the Runway- very similar to Nuuly and a great place to find nice dresses. The first two months are often less expensive!

  3. Stitch Fix- great for all sizes and for both guys and gals!

  4. Taelor- menswear rental company with 8 pieces of clothing per month

Hair & Make-up by Ally with Flair Style Lounge

Hair & Make-up by Ally with Flair Style Lounge


Engagement session outfit color palette inspiration. Any of these color combinations look great together! I would recommend pastel color palettes or earth tone color palettes. The only color I would avoid is bright red.

Can’t decide on an Austin engagement session location? Pick a location meaningful to you. Or I also have a Pinterest board for location inspiration!

Still having trouble putting your outfit together? Consider hiring a talented stylist like @chillannstyling

Hair & Make-up Vendor Recommendations:
Crown of Glory Beauty
Flair Style Lounge
Lola Beauty
Sunny Hair & Make-up
Luna Beauty & Bridal


Close up of outfit inspiration during Chicago engagement session.
Austin Engagement Session at the Blanton Museum of Art
Laguna Gloria Engagement session | Austin wedding photographer