Prepping for photos in general can be tricky, and the photos that announce you're getting married have added pressure! We asked Glacier National Park photographer Haley J Photo for tips and outfit examples to help you prep, and to ensure that you end up with engagement photos that you love. Photography by Haley J Photo.
Tip #1:
Pick a photographer whose vision aligns with yours. Make sure you view their online portfolio and love their editing and shooting style before inquiring with them. Ask him or her for useful tools such as outfit inspiration and/or location guides. Understand what they offer as far as time, amount of photos, and travel. You can usually find this information on their website under “investments” or “pricing.”
Tip #2:
Decide what season you want your photos taken in and where. Ask yourself what you want to have in the background of your photos. It can be at your home, a public location, or a place your photographer recommends for lighting purposes. Lighting is a key piece to good photos, so be sure to listen to your photographer on that one! After deciding season and location, you can plan your outfits.
Tip #3:
Outfits can make or break your photos! It’s important to pick colors that compliment the scenery rather than the outfits being the main focus of the image. Stay away from busy prints, vivid colors and too tight or baggy, unflattering clothing. Pick two to three colors and keep the busy prints to small quantities. It is also important to know what type of vibe you are going for. Is your style more relaxed or casual? Boho or eccentric? Western or ranchy? Dressy or sophisticated? Use your vibe to show your personality! Try not to combine styles, but rather ask your photographer if you can change outfits halfway through your session for two different vibes! Checkout the outfit inspiration for each season below!
What to wear in WINTER:
1. Hints of white because it matches the snow. Black to contrast the snow, subtle oranges to bring out the tamaracks lightly coated with snow.
2. Denim, white and/or khaki and black. Lighter blues always look good and flow with a large amount of white. Black brings the subject towards the front and white keeps your eyes looking.
3. Accessories! Add beanies for a warm, relaxed look. Wool-blend long coats add a sophisticated touch. Winter Sorel boots with fur add an extra warm element to the images as well.
What to wear in FALL:
1. Let the Fall colors speak! Use neutral colors, small amounts of denim, and/or black and subtle prints to compliment the background.
2. Use one statement color that is in the same family as the backdrop, but a slightly different tone.
3. Use accessories such as a Pendleton blanket, felt hat, or bring your dogs!
What to wear in SPRING:
1. Soft tans/browns and pastel colors compliment the bright blooms + bright green grass.
2. Ask your photographer if they know of any places that have wildflowers. In Montana, wildflowers can typically be found from the end of May to the second week of June.
3. Places where there is naturally a lot of vivid color, its best to use very neutral tones to not make it too busy!
What to wear in SUMMER:
1. White and tan allow for the mountains and trees to be the color in the photo while letting the subjects be soft/dreamy. If the subjects wore bright/vivid colors it may take away from the imagery.
2. One person can wear a very neutral outfit, while the other wears a statement piece. Notice the woman in the second photo has a shiny blush dress.
3. Felt hats are always so fun and playful during summer sessions. A white light blanket or sheet is great to bring to sit on as well.
Photography by Haley J Photo. Haley is a Montana Bride Vendor Collective member serving all of Montana, especially Glacier National Park. She specializes in adventure elopements and large weddings.