top of page

The photography Blog

Search

What should we wear for our engagement shoot in Hampshire?

Updated: 5 days ago

Your choice of attire can make a huge difference to the outcome of your engagement photo gallery. For your wedding day, you'll be wearing your beautiful dress, suit, or whatever you decide on, and I'm sure your outfit will complement any surroundings. But what about your engagement shoot?


Today, I want to discuss how various patterns, textures, and colours can either blend in with or stand out in photos. Engagement photos should capture the love you share, and wearing mismatched or overly distracting outfits might take attention away from you both.

A couple walks arm in arm on a sunny path, smiling at each other. The setting features a historic timber-framed house and lush greenery.

The backdrop of your Hampshire engagement shoot plays a big role in what outfits will work best. Here are some things to consider:


  • Colours in the Environment: If your location features white stone or cream walls, or if it’s set in a barn with mahogany, dark wood, or rich colours, these elements should influence the tones you wear.

  • The Level of Detail: A forest has a lot of texture, with trees, light, and shadows creating a busy scene. A simpler outfit will help you stand out. Conversely, a clean, minimal backdrop like a beach or stately home allows for more intricate outfits.

  • Casual or Formal: If you are a couple who loves mountain climbling and your engagement shoot is on a hillside- wear jeans and tees if that's what makes you comfortable. I think the whole point is to capture who you are as a couple so if you wear something that you'd never wear just for a photo- you won't feel contected to them later on.


Outfit Recommendations by Location

These are my top suggestions for outfit colours and styles that work well with my editing style and enhance your engagement photos:

  • Beach: Neutrals (beige, cream, soft blues)

  • Stately Home: Gown & Suit, Shirts, Cocktail Dresses

  • Forest: Whites, Flowy Skirts, Linens

  • Field: Denim, Neutrals, Whites

  • Autumn Shoot: Oranges, Browns, Earthy Tones

  • Barn: Browns, Autumnal Colours

  • City: Whites, Neutrals, Monochrome

  • Home: Relaxed – Jeans, PJs, Natural Fabrics

  • Bar: Jewel Tones, Cocktail Dress, Suit

  • Village: Denim, Whites, Straw and Natural Fibres


A couple in relaxed outfits frolick outside Northbrook Park

Using a Colour Wheel

I love a colour wheel! If you want your engagement photos to pop, consider pairing complementary colours such as:

  • Yellow & Blue

  • Green & Red

  • Pink & Orange

  • Purple & Yellow


These colours sit opposite each other on the colour wheel, creating bold, eye-catching contrasts. If you prefer a more calming aesthetic, choose colours that are next to each other on the wheel, such as blue and green or peach and pink.

A woman in a black dress holding red roses is led down marble stairs by a man in a black shirt. Elegant architecture in the background.


Prints vs. Block Colours

While I’m not against all prints, I generally recommend block colours for engagement shoots. Pretty florals or subtle stripes can work, but busy prints can take attention away from you and sometimes clash with the background. A safe choice is always solid colours that complement your location and yourself.


What do I personally recommend? Honestly, wear white- it's bridal and it'll give you a great idea of how your wedding photos are going to look on the day.


ree

Bringing Kids to Your Engagement Shoot?

If your little ones are joining in, consider coordinating their outfits with yours. Stick to a cohesive colour palette and avoid super bright or clashing colours. Comfortable, natural fabrics help keep kids happy and looking adorable in your engagement photos.


Woman smiling and walking on a sunny path next to a fence, with a man beside her. Trees and grass line the path, creating a cheerful scene.


Choosing the right outfits will help create timeless, stunning images that capture your love story perfectly. If you're planning your engagement photoshoot and need any styling advice, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help!




Comments

hi! I'm cat and i am a full time wedding photographer
(and a little bit of a photography geek!)
 
I started taking photos as a teenager, my Dad was a wedding photographer and I would often help him. In 2021 I left my corporate job with a dream and hope that I could make photography a full time job. Since then I have been pouring my heart and soul into this business and have been honoured to be chosen as wedding photographer for so many lovely couples as well as being a portrait and event photographer.  
​
I TAKE CLASSIC, TIMELESS, DOCUMENTARY STYLE PHOTOGRAPHS WITH MINIMAL INTRUSION

 

But I will step in and offer gentle guidance when it's right to do so, I have learned over the years to read the room, anticipate the next move, hold space when needed and offer support when I can.

​

aRE YOU LOOKING FOR A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
When choosing a wedding photographer, consider their style, experience, portfolio, and reviews from previous clients. It's also important to discuss pricing, availability, and any specific requests you may have.
 
Don't forget to meet with them in person to ensure you have good chemistry and feel comfortable with their approach.
​

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential wedding photographers, it's a good idea to ask them some key questions to help you make your final decision.

 

Here are a few questions to consider:

  • What is your photography style? Do you prefer a more traditional approach or a more candid, documentary style?

  • Do you have experience with weddings of a similar size and style to mine?

  • Can I see a full gallery of a recent wedding you photographed? This will give you a better sense of their consistency and quality of work.

  • Do you have backup equipment in case something goes wrong on the day of the wedding?

  • How do you handle difficult lighting situations (e.g. low light, harsh sunlight, indoor vs. outdoor)? This will help you gauge their technical expertise.

  • What is included in your packages? Are there any additional fees I should be aware of (e.g. travel, overtime)?

  • How long will it take to receive my photos after the wedding? Will they be edited and retouched?

  • Can you accommodate any special requests I have (e.g. specific shots, family portraits)?

  • How do you ensure that you capture all of the important moments on the day of the wedding?

​

By asking these questions and having an open and honest conversation with your wedding photographer, you can ensure that you find the right fit for your big day.

​

​

bottom of page