Today we have some excellent tips from Jennifer Smutek Photography, from what to wear for your engagement session, to location selection, to having fun!

Clients often ask how they can best prepare for their upcoming engagement session, so I thought I would put together some helpful tips to ensure you have beautiful engagement images.
What to Wear 
More than anything, attire has the most impact on your final images, so choosing the proper wardrobe is essential. Follow these simple tips and you’ll love the way you look in your photos!

Coordinate
Coordinate by choosing colors that either compliment each other or have similar shades. If possible, avoid wearing clothing with large logos or strong patterns, and choose items that have a more timeless feel. I suggest planning your wardrobe out a few weeks in advance, so that you can address any concerns you have. You may even wish to lay your possible outfit choices out on the bed, to help compare and better coordinate your outfits with each other.

Also, be sure to consider your location and choose clothing that complements your surroundings. If you plan to have a session in a nature park or on a farm, jeans and a t-shirt may be the way to go. If have chosen a more urban or formal location, you may wish to dress it up a bit.

Choose Clothing that is Flattering & Comfortable 
Choose clothing that is easy to move around in and you are comfortable and confident both sitting and standing. Be sure to wear your outfit for a few hours around the house and make sure you like the way you look and feel. If you find that you are constantly having to adjust a certain article of clothing, or feel the need to stand in certain positions to feel confident, it may not be the best choice. You don’t want to be fidgeting with clothing during your session. Opt for clothing that has a flattering fit and isn’t too tight or too baggy. Clothing that is too loose can often cling in a less than flattering way when you walk or when it is windy outside. Clothing that is too tight can create unwanted bulge when sitting. And, don’t forget to choose a wrinkle-free fabric! Nothing is worse than looking like you grabbed your outfit from the bottom of the hamper.

I like to suggest wearing clothing with texture, as textured clothing like cable-knit sweaters or weaved cardigans, capture light well and add dimension to the images.  For the ladies, V-neck shirts and shirts with sleeves tend to be the most flattering, while the guys tend to look sharp in shirts with a high collar.

Add Variety
Layer, layer, layer. Wearing layers will allow you to take on and off items to add variety to your session. Cardigans are an easy way to make a big change in the overall look of an outfit. Also, feel free to bring a change of clothes. You can spend the first half of your session in your ‘dressier’ clothes and the second half in your favorite jeans. Just be sure to bring clothing that you can easily change in and out of while on the go.

Clothing can also serve as a fun prop. Did you meet at college? Go ahead, rock that hoodie from your alma mater! Have a favorite sports team? Bring some jerseys to throw over your outfit for a few fun shots to show your team spirit. Most importantly, be yourself! This session is about capturing a very special time in your lives. One day you, and your loved ones, will look back on these photographs to tell a story. Choosing clothing that fits your personality will allow the images reflect who you really are!

Details, Details, Details…
Don’t forget the little details like jewelry and shoes, as these accessories will really polish off your outfit. If you plan to sport your favorite pumps, you might wish to bring a simple pair of flats to slip on and off between locations. Keep in mind that, depending on where you choose to hold your session, there may be a bit of walking between poses. Also, what better time to treat yourself to a mani/pedi? You will want your nails looking their best while sporting that new shiny rock! And ladies, leave your purse at home. You don’t want to have to keep track of things while trying to enjoy your session.

Skip the Spray Tan
While having a nice bronze base may make you feel fabulous, cameras tend to go crazy for those orange tones. Unless you have a natural tan, I would skip the spray tan or bronze make-up.

Think of When & Where
While sessions can take place at any time of day, there are certain times of day that have the best light for taking pictures. For this reason, I like to suggest scheduling your session within 90 minutes of sunrise or sunset.

Also, think about where you would like your session to be held. Did you have your first date at a local park? Do you like to start your weekend at a particular coffee shop? If you are stumped for ideas, be sure to ask your photographer, as they are certain to have some great spots they can suggest.

Most Importantly… Relax & Have Fun
Engagement sessions are a great opportunity to take a break from all of the wedding planning and have a little fun! Allow yourself to shake off the stress from planning and enjoy this time with your fiance. You deserve it!

Jennifer Smutek Photography is a member of the Charm City Wed Vendor Guide.  For membership information, click here.