Your engagement session is an opportunity to celebrate your love story while capturing beautiful, timeless images. Choosing the right outfits can elevate the look and feel of your photos, but it doesn’t need to be stressful. I’m here to help you plan looks that feel natural, complement your style, and match the stunning Santa Barbara backdrops we’ll explore together.
Here are my top tips to help you decide what to wear for your engagement photos.
1. Wear What Feels Like You
The most important thing is to feel comfortable and authentic in what you wear. Don’t feel like you need to dress in something overly formal or outside your usual style unless that’s your vibe. If you’re a casual, outdoorsy couple, lean into that with relaxed yet polished outfits. If you love a more elevated look, go for flowy dresses or tailored pieces that make you feel confident.
When you’re wearing something that feels like you, it’s easier to relax and focus on enjoying the moment, which always leads to better photos.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Matching outfits can feel forced, so instead, aim for coordination. Pick a color palette with 2–3 complementary tones that work together but aren’t identical. For example, soft neutrals like beige, blush, sage, or light blue pair beautifully with Santa Barbara’s natural landscapes.
If one of you is wearing a patterned piece, like a floral dress or a checked shirt, the other can wear solid colors that pull from the same palette. Layering textures—like knits, linen, or denim—can also add depth to your photos without feeling busy.
3. Consider the Location and Season
Santa Barbara’s diverse locations play a huge role in your session’s overall vibe, so let the backdrop inspire your outfit choices:
• Beachy and Coastal (e.g., Miramar Beach, Haskells Beach): Flowy fabrics and light colors like white, cream, or soft yellows and oranges complement the coastal tones. Barefoot shots on the sand? Yes, please!
• Romantic Gardens (e.g., Casa del Herrero): Timeless outfits, like maxi dresses and jewel tones, work beautifully here. Saturated and muted tones work at this location but avoid patterns.
• Cliffs and Foothills (e.g., Ellwood Bluffs, Parma Park): Earthy tones like olive, rust, or camel blend seamlessly with natural landscapes. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring these rugged terrains.
• Urban and Artistic (e.g., The Funk Zone): Go bold with pops of color or chic streetwear-inspired pieces to complement the creative, edgy environment.
Matching your outfits to the location helps create a cohesive, natural look for your photos.
4. Add Personal Touches
Accessories or props can bring a unique, personal element to your session. Here are some ideas:
• Fun footwear: Matching colorful Converse or stylish boots can add a playful vibe.
• Hats: A wide-brimmed hat or beanie can bring character to your look.
• Please bring your dog!
These details can make your session feel even more “you” while giving us more variety in the photos.
5. Keep Comfort in Mind
Your engagement session will likely involve movement—walking, spinning, or even running on the beach—so make sure your outfits allow you to move freely. Avoid anything too tight, itchy, or restrictive. Also, keep the weather in mind; layering pieces like light cardigans or jackets are perfect for cooler evenings.
6. Bring Options for Variety
If you’re torn between a couple of looks, bring them both! A quick outfit change can add variety to your gallery. For example, start with a dressier look, then switch to something more casual for golden hour moments.
7. Final Details: Grooming and Accessories
Don’t forget the little things! Clean nails, tidy hair, and simple accessories can go a long way in creating polished, timeless photos. Engagement rings often take center stage, so make sure yours is ready to shine!
Let’s Keep It Easy and Fun
Your engagement session is all about celebrating your connection in a way that feels true to you. By choosing outfits that are comfortable, coordinated, and reflective of your personality, we’ll create beautiful images that tell your unique story.
If you’re ready to plan a session in one of Santa Barbara’s stunning locations—like Miramar Beach, Lizards Mouth, or Ellwood Bluffs—I’d love to help you every step of the way. Let’s make it a fun, memorable experience you’ll treasure forever! Click the button below to get started.














