Dress Code for Engagement Portraits
Your engagement session is booked, and we are looking forward to photographing you. A little care with clothing, hair, and grooming lets you be part of taking your photographs from great to greater. These are photographs you may enjoy on your walls for years to come.
Choosing your clothing
Decide whether you would like a more formal or semi-casual look. Avoid clothing and shoes that are overly casual, too tight, too loose, too busy, or excessively bright. Dark trousers or skirts with darker tops are a good starting point.
For a formal look, choose simple, classic garments in a similar tonal range. Long sleeves and darker clothing help keep the attention on your faces. When one person wears very light clothing and the other wears very dark clothing, the contrast can draw attention away from the two of you.
Choose colours that complement your skin tone. If you often receive compliments when you wear a particular colour, consider wearing it for your photographs. Dark colours, including black, can work well. Both of you should aim for a similar tonal range.
Choose a neckline that suits you. A higher neckline, such as a turtleneck, can suit a longer neck; a V-neck or crew neck may suit a shorter neck. Avoid bulky cowl necks or prominent shoulder pads if they distract from the look you want.
Take care to avoid sunburn in the days before your session. It is better to arrive with your usual skin tone than to try to get a last-minute tan.
Hair and grooming
If you normally shave, arrive freshly shaved. If you wear a beard or moustache, have it groomed as you would like it to appear in your photographs.
If you plan to have a haircut, try to schedule it about a week before your session so it has time to settle. Avoid a completely new hairstyle immediately beforehand.
Have your hair ready when you arrive, with only a quick touch-up needed. This helps us begin your session on schedule.
Makeup, hands, and your ring
Wear your makeup as you normally would. Lip gloss can add a little sparkle, and translucent powder can help control excess shine.
Your hands may appear in some of the photographs, so have your nails neatly done. Remember your engagement ring, and make sure it is clean too.
A little reassurance
If a blemish appears on the morning of your session, please do not worry. Mention it to us so we can discuss any retouching questions with you.
If you are unsure what to wear, ask Jean or Marianna before your appointment. No question is too simple. We want to help you make photographs you will be happy to keep.
A little preparation makes a difference. Then it is time to enjoy being together and have some fun with Jean.