Let’s be honest: figuring out what to wear for engagement photos is a tough job. For most couples, engagement photos are the first time they are stepping in front of the lens together; it can absolutely feel overwhelming. As a photographer based in Northwest Montana, it is the greatest joy to capture such a special moment for couples who are traveling to the area for their engagement photos. There’s just something about being documenting love stories in such a breathtaking place. Whether you’re traveling to Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, Washington, Alaska, or some other epic location among breathtaking peaks, I’ve put together a seasonal outfit guide to make figuring out what to wear for engagement photos in the mountains a breeze! Let’s get into it, shall we?

What to Wear for Engagement Photos in the Mountains

You or your partner may have found yourselves thinking “why the heck does it matter what we wear for engagement photos!?” Look, I get it. At face value, it might seem silly to stress over what to wear. But the reality is, engagement photos are often the first time you are in front of the camera with your person. You want to look and feel good for your big debut, right!? Choosing the “right” outfits for your engagement photos will ensure that all you have to focus on during your session is how cute you two look together! Talk about goals. 

The Best Tips for Choosing Outfits for Engagement Photos

No matter what season (or location) you choose for your engagement photos, there are few tips to keep in mind throughout the planning process. These tips will give you a solid starting point if you just can’t wait to add that darling dress to your cart. 

1. Prioritize Comfort + Confidence — If you would never wear a maxi dress, don’t feel pressured to wear one. Or if your honey would never be caught with tie around his neck, skip it. You want to feel like you in your outfit. The last thing you want is to look back at your pictures and wonder who those people are. You and your partner will feel far more comfortable in front of the lens if you are wearing what feels authentic to you.
2. Stick to Neutrals + Earthy Tones — While I’m not saying that you should only wear beige, maybe leave the neon green shoes at home. Leaning into neutrals and earthy tones ensures that you, your honey, and the gorgeous landscape stand out. Trendy, loud colors will date your photos, whereas earthy tones ensure a timeless feel. 
3. Avoid Logos + Busy Patterns — This one goes hand-in-hand with the previous tip. That Under Armor logo on your honey’s hat will take away attention from the real starts of the show: you two. Similarly, busy patterns will draw away the focus from you two (and the landscape.) This isn’t to say that you must only wear solid colors; try to choose a simple pattern, and limit the pattern to one partner. If your honey is rocking a flannel, consider a solid sweater instead of stripes. If florals are your vibe, have your honey in a solid button down.

Choosing Outfits for Engagement Photos

1. Think About Movement — If you look at your Pinterest board of engagement photos, odds are they each have something in common. There is something so romantic about a flowy dress effortlessly floating around as you’re slow dancing in a field of wildflowers. The visual interest that flowy fabrics add to photos in a game changer.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match — Matchy-matchy is not the vibe, trust me. When it comes to engagement photos, coordinate your outfits rather than match. To ensure a cohesive look (without looking like you’re wearing matching Christmas jammies…), choose colors from a similar color palette. 
3. Options Are Your Best Friend — If you have any ounce of hesitation in your engagement session outfit, seek council (and have options on deck.) While I can’t speak for every photographer, I love when my couples come to me asking what I think of a certain dress or shirt. Obviously my priority is ensuring my couples are comfortable and confident in their choices, but I also know how good it feels to have reassurance (or honesty) from someone I trust. If you aren’t able to send outfit photos to your photographer or ask opinions of your friends, bring your different options to your session!
   
   I also suggest that my couples have at least 2 outfits on hand, regardless of their confidence in the outfits. My couples typically have one “dressier” or “fancy” outfit, and one more casual/comfy outfit for variety in their photos. 

Seasonal Outfit Guide for Couples

Spring Engagement Photos in the Mountains: Fresh, Airy, Soft

When you think of Spring in the mountains, you probably think of new life. You also might think about soft pastels, fresh air, and florals galore. While Spring in the mountains is abundant and joyful, the weather can also be unpredictable; be sure to take that into consideration when making your outfit selections. 

Spring Engagement Photos Color Palette —

• Soft neutrals, pastels, muted earth tones (sage green, dusty blue, blush, warm beige)
• Avoid overly bright or neon colors that clash with the natural tones of the mountains.

Style Suggestions —

• Flowy dresses, linen shirts, lightweight layers
• Textured fabrics (lace, linen or cotton) to add depth without busy patterns
• Footwear: Neutral sandals, ankle booties, or casual sneakers

Considerations for Spring Engagement Photos in the Mountains:

• Layers are key to being comfortable. Spring is notorious for being cold in the morning, and warm in the afternoon. A lightweight cardigan or jacket can add visual interest (and be extremely functional) while you and your honey are strolling through wildflowers. 
• Be mindful in your footwear choices. High heels or stark-white sneakers might not be the best option since the ground will be soft and muddy.

Summer Engagement Photos in the Mountains: Warm, Golden, Effortless

Wherever you’re headed for your breathtaking engagement photos in the mountains, you can guarantee that Summer will be the busiest season. While this shouldn’t have an impact on your outfit choices, it is something to be aware of. Summertime in the mountains also brings thunderstorms and strong sunshine — so pack appropriate gear to keep you safe and comfortable.

Summer Engagement Photos Color Palette —

• Warm neutrals, terracotta, ivory, olive green, mustard, and deep blues
• Earthy sunset tones to complement golden-hour lighting (avoid hot pink, opt for a deep plum or soft pink)

Style Suggestions —

• Light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton
• Flowy maxi dresses
• Rolled sleeves, relaxed button-ups
• Avoid heavy layers or dark black clothing that absorbs too much heat

Considerations for Summer Engagement Photos in the Mountains:

• You might not be near a beach, but you definitely will want to wear sunscreen and wear lightweight fabrics.
• Be mindful of what terrain you prefer or what activities you plan on participating in to choose the most appropriate footwear. If heels are your vibe, I recommend wearing hiking boots until you reach your destination.

Fall Engagement Photos in the Mountains: Cozy, Earthy, Romantic

I’m of the opinion that the actual best time to visit the mountains is in the Fall. (But shh, don’t tell everyone!) Fall in the mountains is far more peaceful as cooler weather ushers in and the foliage begins its transformation. It’s as if the mountains become even more magical.

Fall Engagement Photos Color Palette—

• Deep earth tones — rust, burnt orange, forest green, deep burgundy, warm brown, soft cream tones
• Avoid neon or cool tones that may harshly contrast with Fall foliage

Style Suggestions —

• Another moment for the beloved layers! Chunky sweaters, flannels with muted tones, wool coats, and cozy scarves are all a good idea.
• Cozy knitwear, denim, or corduroy add a fun textural element to your outfit.
• Leather boots, ankle booties, or stylish sneakers

Considerations for Fall Engagement Photos in the Mountains:

• Fall weather can be crisp — keep layers on hand and incorporate them into your outfit to keep you warm and cozy.
• Consider movement-friendly pieces, like a long coat or flowy scarf.

Winter Engagement Photos in the Mountains: Bold, Cozy, Intimate

Winter in the mountains looks different, depending on where you’re heading. Winter comes much sooner in Alaska than it does in the Southern Rockies. Higher elevations may have snowpack, but the lower elevations may only have a dusting in early Winter. Much like Spring, the weather can be unpredictable. But the unpredictability is worth the prospect of cozying up among towering peaks and pines.

Winter Engagement Photos Color Palette— 

• Deep neutrals — charcoal, warm taupe, camel, deep red, emerald green
• Contrast is key: lean into soft whites and creams, rather than bright white

Style Suggestions —

• Chic jackets, knit sweaters, turtlenecks, and wool layers
• Long-sleeved dresses with fleece-lined leggings for warmth
• Accessories: Beanies, scarves, and stylish gloves for added texture (and warmth!)

Considerations for Winter Engagement Photos in the Mountains:

• Comfort is especially key for Winter engagement photos. Opt for warm fabrics to avoid looking stiff or uncomfortable. 
• If there is even the slightest chance of snow, waterproof boots is a must! Leave the sandals at home, and opt for warm boots with wool socks. 

Montana Engagement Photographer | Sydney Breann Photography

When it comes to choosing what to wear for engagement photos in the mountains, the most important thing to remember is that you dress with the season and your comfort at the top of your mind. Although engagement photos feel like a “big deal”, ultimately, they are a sweet opportunity to document the love between you and your person. You two deserve to feel like yourselves, whether you’re in front of a camera or not. While it’s easier said than done, don’t put too much pressure on your engagement photos.

I hope this Seasonal Outfit Guide gave you a solid starting point to piece together your outfits for getting lost in the mountains. If you’re searching for more inspo, head over to my Mountain Engagement Photography board on Pinterest. You can also check out the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto) for more recent lovers, outfit inspiration, and behind-the-scenes into my life as a Montana Elopement Photographer. Alright friend, that’s probably enough from me for now… Until next time, are you ready to wander?