How to get great engagement pictures

Many couples ask me what to wear to an engagement session. 

The most important thing in an engagement shoot is to keep it comfortable.   Wear what you normally would on a night out with your friends.  That can mean a lot of different things to different people.  If you're a casual couple go with jeans and a simple shirt.  If your lifestyle is a little more upscale then dress it up a little bit.

Show your personality...A little bit.  If your into country then bring your cowboy hats and boots.  If you love to golf or play basketball bring your gear to get some cool shots that show your personality.  That being said it might be best to avoid the Canucks Jersey no matter how big a fan you are.

There are a few simple guidelines to keep in mind.

-avoid busy patterns, keep the clothes simple, it's all about showing your love for each other.
-avoid text and logos on clothing as peoples minds are automatically drawn to things to read.  The focus should be on you.
-watch out for white shoes.  Guys, a new pair of white runners jump right out of the picture. This rule isn't set in stone, girls can look great in a pair of sexy white shoes.  Just make sure you like those shoes because they'll be noticeable in every picture.
-bright yellow and bright green can make you look like an alien.  Just kidding, but these colors can send a slight color cast on skin tones.  If you love yellow or green just make sure it's a little bit on the subtle side.

Another thing to keep in mind is to bring a second top to get another look.  Adding a different shirt or jacket can change the feel of a shoot and give more options.

Remember you don't have to match, sometimes it looks cute other times it can be a bit much.  My test is simple.  Twenty minutes before you are ready to leave stand in front of a mirror together.  Anything that clashes or doesn't work will immediately stand out and you'll have plenty of time to change.

Last but not least and probably most importantly.  Schedule your shoot early.  That way if the weather doesn't co-operate and we can't reschedule for a few weeks we will still have plenty of time to get amazing pictures.