What to Wear for a Couples Photo shoot: A Complete Guide

Planning a couples photo shoot is an exciting experience, but one of the biggest questions couples ask is: What should we wear? Outfits play a HUGE role in how your photos turn out, from colour coordination to overall aesthetics. To help you feel confident and camera-ready, here’s a complete guide on what to wear for a couples photo shoot from a Cowichan Valley couples photographer.

1. Choose Complementary Colours, Not Matching Outfits

While matching outfits might seem like a cute idea, coordinating colours without being too identical looks more natural and stylish.

Best Colour Palettes for Couples Photos:

• Neutral Tones: Beige, cream, gray, soft browns, and muted greens work beautifully in nature settings.

• Earthy Shades: Olive, rust, mustard, and burnt orange look great in outdoor locations.

• Pastels: Soft pinks, blues, and lavenders add a dreamy, romantic touch.

• Deep Jewel Tones: Burgundy, emerald green, navy, and mustard create a striking contrast.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overly bright or neon colours, as they can be distracting in photos.

2. Stick to solids

While patterns can add personality, avoid overly busy prints that can distract from your connection. If you choose to wear patterns for your photos make sure only one person is wearing pattern, with solid colours for the other partner to balance the look. Avoid large logos, graphic tees, or heavy prints that take attention away from you

3. Dress for the Season and Location

Your outfit should reflect the season and setting of your photo shoot.

Seasonal Outfit Ideas:

Spring/Summer: Light and flowy fabrics like linen, chiffon, or soft cotton. Dresses, skirts, and rolled-up sleeves for men work well.
Fall/Winter: Cozy layers like sweaters, scarves, and jackets. Consider long dresses, boots, and warm earth tones.

Location-Based Outfit Suggestions:

• Beach Photoshoot: Flowy dresses, linen shirts, barefoot or sandals.

• Mountains/Nature Setting: Earthy colours, cozy sweaters, and boots.

• Urban/City Shoot: Chic, modern outfits like blazers, jeans, and stylish accessories.

4. Prioritize Comfort & Confidence

The best outfit is one that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you’re constantly adjusting your clothes, it may show in your photos.

✔ Choose fitted (but not too tight) clothing that flatters your shape.
✔ Avoid anything too baggy or restrictive.
✔ If you feel great in what you’re wearing, it will reflect in your expressions and body language.

5. Coordinate with Accessories & Layers

Accessories can enhance your outfits without overpowering them.

Recommended Accessories:

• Hats for a stylish, laid-back touch.

• Layered necklaces or delicate jewelry for added elegance.

• A cozy blanket or shawl for cute wrapped-up shots in colder weather.

• Leather boots, ankle boots, or classic sneakers for a polished look.

6. Avoid Clashing with the Background

Think about where your shoot will take place and pick colours that complement, not compete, with the background.

• Beach Settings: Soft blues, whites, and beiges blend beautifully.

• Forest Locations: Deep browns, and warm neutral tones work best.

• Urban Backdrops: Neutral or bold solid colours can stand out.

7. Consider Hair & Makeup

Even if you’re going for a natural look, a little extra effort with hair and makeup can make a difference in how polished you feel.

✔ Keep makeup natural yet defined to enhance your features.
✔ Style hair in a way that will either flow OR won’t get easily tousled by the wind (depending on what you’re going for).
✔ Consider getting your hair and makeup done for a polished finish.

8. Bonus: Bring a Second Outfit

If you want variety in your photos, bring a second outfit to change things up! Choose a casual look for one part of the session and a dressier outfit for another.

Final Thoughts

Your couples session is about capturing your love story, and your outfits should reflect that! By choosing complementary colours, considering the location, and dressing comfortably, you’ll feel confident and look amazing in your photos.

✨ Ready to book your couples session? As a Duncan couples photographer and engagement photographer, I’d love to help create and plan your perfect photo shoot to create timeless memories.