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Memories last a lifetime, but photographs last even longer. The moment you fell in love, the day he popped the question -- your engagement photos capture those feelings forever. Every dazzling diva knows the engagement photo shoot is the time to show off your most stylish outfits, but do you know what really works and what fashion faux pas to avoid? Choose a fabulous wardrobe ensemble to ensure those snazzy snapshots bring a smile to your face every time you pull them out.
Color Yourself Smitten
The biggest mistake couples make in photo shoots? Matching colors. The idea is to coordinate, not match, so showing up dressed like twins is a big no-no. "Accents and colors that complement each other are the goal," says wedding photographer Edson Dias of Dias Photography, based in Boston. "If she's wearing a particular colored top, maybe his collared undershirt can accent that color. If he's wearing a certain color, maybe she can accent it with her accessories." Photographer Miranda Parker, owner of MP Photography, which serves Central Michigan, agrees that "the matchy-matchy look is out." So if your heart's set on a fiery red dress, go for it! Just avoid dressing your fiancé top to bottom in the same fierce red hue.
Dress to Impress
Bring at least two outfits: one casual and one dressy. Los Angeles wedding photographer Aleks Bienkowska of Polka Photos advises: "Make sure your clothes are comfortable but fitted. You should be able to move easily and sit down without splitting a seam." Bienkowska recommends solid colors and subtle prints to keep your outfit from being too distracting. To still look hot and stylin' without relying on too many solid hues, let layers and texture take a starring role. "It's all about color, layers and texture," Parker says. "Patterns are totally OK too!" Of course, no outfit would be complete without your finest footwear. "If you love shoes like I do, bring your hot shoes even if you can't walk more than 2 feet in them," Bienkowska says. "Also bring a comfortable pair of shoes that you can walk in before changing into the hot ones." And, of course, if you're showing off your toes, don't forget a pre-photo shoot pedicure!
Sizzling with Style
Color is only part of the equation when it comes to choosing a killer outfit. While the thrill of your own personal photo shoot may have you running to the mall for the latest trends, take a step back and look at what you're buying. Expert photographers and stylists alike stress the importance of timeless pieces, like the LBD (little black dress), but add some interest. "Try to avoid the 'white shirts with khaki' look or 'black shirts with jeans' look," Parker says. She recommends shops like Urban Outfitters and Mod Cloth for finding fresh, yet classy styles.
Prep for Perfection
You've laid out your outfits and you're ready to strike a pose for one of the most memorable photo shoots of your life. Not so fast! There's more to prepping for your photo shoot if you want to avoid fashion slipups. A wedding and portrait photographer for more than 10 years, Cyndi Shattuck of Manhattan's Cyndi Shattuck Photography recommends getting plenty of rest, drinking a glass of water, and having a snack before your photo shoot. Stick with clear deodorant for sleeveless tops, and match your bra color to your blouse. "Black tops require black undergarments because white often shows through when photographed," Shattuck cautions. For ladies who need to wax off a little unwanted facial hair, do it at least three to five days before the shoot. Another caveat for brides-to-be? Shattuck warns against wearing perfume to your outdoor photo session unless you want a swarm of angry bees chasing you down.
