Forest sunset engagement pre wedding photo session in Petersfield, Hampshire.

Your pre-wedding photoshoot (also called an engagement shoot) is more than just a warm-up before the big day — it’s a chance to tell your story, capture your chemistry, and create images that feel authentically you.

As photographers, one of the most common questions we get is: “What should we wear?” The right outfits can elevate your photos from nice to timeless, while the wrong choices can be distracting or date the images quickly.

Here’s our photographer-approved guide to help you look confident, coordinated, and camera-ready.

A couple dances on a forest path surrounded by lush greenery, with sunlight streaming through the trees and casting a warm glow around them.
A couple walks hand in hand through a sunlit grassy field, smiling and looking at each other. Tall trees and soft sunlight create a peaceful, romantic atmosphere. The image is in black and white.
A smiling couple stands closely together in a sunlit field with tall grass and wildflowers, with trees and a soft, glowing sky in the background.
A couple stands closely together outdoors, smiling and embracing each other. The man wears glasses and a button-up shirt, while the woman wears a sleeveless dress. The background is softly blurred. Black and white photo.
A couple stands embracing on a path in a forest, surrounded by green ferns and tall trees, with warm sunlight shining through the leaves in the background.
Prewedding/Engagement photo session in Hampshire
Outdoor prewedding photo shoot in West Sussex National Park
A couple smiles at each other closely. The woman, wearing a white top, rests her hand with an engagement ring on the man’s chest. The man wears glasses and a white shirt. Both appear happy and affectionate.
A couple stands closely together on a forest path, embracing and smiling at each other. Sunlight filters through the trees, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere. The woman wears a pink top and jeans; the man wears a dark shirt and khakis.
A couple is walking arm-in-arm down a narrow dirt path surrounded by lush green ferns and tall trees in a forest. They are viewed from behind and appear relaxed and close.
A couple stands embracing in a sunlit forest surrounded by ferns and tall trees, with warm evening light streaming through the branches.
A couple sits closely together in a field of blooming purple flowers, smiling and touching foreheads, surrounded by trees in a peaceful, natural setting.
Pre wedding/engagement photo session in Hampshire
A man and woman hold hands and smile at each other while walking through a sunlit forest. The image is in black and white, capturing a joyful and romantic moment.
Fun and relaxed engagement photo session in the forest
Forest sunset engagement pre wedding photo session in Petersfield, Hampshire.
Hampshire Pre Wedding Engagement Photo Shoot
A couple stands on a forest path at sunset, holding hands and smiling at each other. The sunlight filters through the trees, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere. Both are casually dressed and surrounded by greenery.
A couple sits together by a stone window, holding hands and smiling warmly. Sunlight streams in, creating a soft, romantic atmosphere—perfect inspiration for full day wedding packages that capture every cherished moment.

1. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Instead of wearing identical colors or outfits, aim for coordination. Choose a complementary color palette (think soft neutrals, earth tones, pastels, or muted jewel shades) and build outfits around it.

✔ Example: One partner in beige and white, the other in sage green or soft blue
✘ Avoid: Both wearing the exact same color head-to-toe

This creates visual harmony while letting each person’s style shine through.

2. Choose Timeless Colors Over Trends

Neutral and earthy tones photograph beautifully and won’t feel dated years from now. Our favorites include:

  • Ivory, beige, camel, and cream
  • Soft browns and tans
  • Muted blues, greys, and greens
  • Pastels like blush, lavender, or powder blue

Try to avoid neon shades, overly bright colors, or bold logos — they tend to steal attention from your faces and emotions.

A couple sits close together in a sunlit field, smiling at each other. The woman wears a white dress and the man wears a dark shirt. The scene is warm and romantic, with tall grass and trees in the background.

3. Dress for the Location & Season

Your outfits should make sense in the environment you’ve chosen.

  • Beach shoots: Flowy dresses, linen shirts, barefoot or sandals
  • Urban shoots: Structured outfits, jackets, heels, or boots
  • Nature or countryside: Soft fabrics, layers, earthy tones

Season matters too. Light layers work well in cooler months, while breathable fabrics keep you comfortable during summer shoots.

A couple sits and stands by a stone window of a historic, weathered building, holding hands and looking at each other—captured in golden sunlight amidst greenery. Discover full day wedding packages to relive moments like these forever.

4. Comfort = Confidence

If you’re tugging at your outfit or feeling restricted, it will show in the photos. Choose clothes that:

  • Fit well (not too tight or too loose)
  • Allow movement (walking, sitting, cuddling)
  • Feel like you

When you’re comfortable, your expressions are relaxed — and that’s what we want to capture.

A couple stands together on a narrow path in a forest at sunset, surrounded by tall trees and lush ferns, gazing affectionately at each other as warm sunlight filters through the trees.

5. Add Texture & Layers

Layers and textures add depth and interest to photos, especially in natural light.

Think:

  • Knits, lace, chiffon, linen
  • Blazers, shawls, scarves, denim or leather jackets

Layers also give you the option to change up your look without a full outfit change.

A smiling couple stands close together outdoors, looking at each other lovingly. The woman rests her hand on the mans chest, displaying a ring, while both wear light-colored, semi-formal clothing. The background is softly blurred.

6. Keep Patterns & Prints Minimal

Small patterns can sometimes create visual distortion on camera. If you love prints, keep them subtle and balanced with solid pieces.

Avoid:

  • Busy prints
  • Thin stripes or checks
  • Large logos or graphics

Simple always photographs better.

A couple sits closely together in a field of blooming purple flowers, smiling and touching foreheads, surrounded by trees in a peaceful, natural setting.
Pre wedding/engagement photo session in Hampshire

7. Shoes Matter (Yes, Really)

Your shoes will often be visible, even in close-up shots.

Choose footwear that:

  • Matches your outfit style
  • Is clean and comfortable
  • Makes sense for the location

Pro tip: Bring a backup pair if you’re unsure — especially for outdoor shoots.

8. Grooming & Styling Tips

  • Keep hair and makeup natural and polished
  • Avoid last-minute drastic haircuts or colors
  • Neat grooming for facial hair
  • Light makeup photographs better than heavy contouring

If you’re planning professional hair or makeup for your wedding, the pre-wedding shoot is a great trial run.

9. Bring One Extra Outfit (Optional)

If time allows, a second outfit can add variety:

  • One casual look
  • One slightly dressier look

Just make sure both outfits still align with the same color palette and overall vibe.

Final Thought

The best pre-wedding photos happen when you feel relaxed, confident, and connected. Your outfits should support that — not distract from it.

If you’re ever unsure, don’t worry — we’re always happy to help you plan outfits that suit your style, location, and story.

✨ After all, the most important thing you can wear is your love. ✨

Need personalized styling advice for your pre-wedding shoot? Get in touch — we’d love to help you plan every detail.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR pre wedding photographer? I’d love to chat with you about your pre wedding /engagement photo session. Please contact me and I will get back to you.

Please check my wedding portfolio and wedding packages.

Similar Posts