In the realm of couples’ photos, we realize there are a plethora of options and different looks that make up the “perfect outfit”. So many factors are to be considered such as time of year, type of session (i.e. engagement photoshoot, portrait session, adventure session, in-home photoshoot, etc), unique style, weather, desired color palette, and a whole lot more! But, the good news here is we’ve created some of our top tips for different outfits that will help a lot of couples look casual and feel confident in front of the camera. Yay!

When it comes to keeping a photoshoot casual, you’ll want to strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. Whether you’re strolling through a sunny park, exploring the urban streets, shooting on a snowy mountain, or simply enjoying a cozy day at home, your day attire should reflect the casual look and easygoing nature of the occasion.

One of the simplest yet best ways to achieve a cohesive look is through a coordinating color scheme. Opt for complementary colors or shades within the same color family. For example, earth tones like olive green and beige, or pastel shades like blush and sky blue, both create a harmonious and visually appealing aesthetic. A favorite color scheme of ours for casual home sessions is denim blues with pops of whites and creams. Some beautiful photoshoots have also been successful when couples wear clothes in darker colors, just be careful to avoid a formal look. Avoid overly busy patterns; instead, choose solid colors or subtle prints that won’t clash in the photos.

Denim is timeless and effortlessly exudes a casual vibe. As briefly mentioned above, Paul and I like to mix denim-on-denim outfits or pair denim with neutral colors like a white shirt or even a casual white dress. Distressed jeans, chambray shirts, or denim jackets can add some rugged charm to your photos especially if the setting is very minimalist.

Be sure to tailor your outfits to the season to ensure both comfort and style. Breathable fabrics like linen or cotton are great for summer and the simplicity aligns well with a casual shoot. Cozy knits and layers, like a flannel shirt, are perfect for a winter or fall photo session. Have you considered a casual holiday card photoshoot? I rarely see couples or family photos on a card at Christmas with a laidback, casual feel. How fun would it be to be barefoot with rolled up jeans, solid green or red tops, sitting in front of the Christmas tree? Better yet, holding hands on the beach, or even opening staged gifts.

Embrace the casual-chic aesthetic by combining comfortable, everyday pieces with a touch of sophistication. Yes, this even includes the guys! Consider pairing a relaxed sweater with casual trousers for him and a casual dress or shorter skirt for her. Be careful when accessorizing as metals and other jewelry can sometimes elevate this type of style to look more formal.

While busy patterns can be tricky to pull off and solid colors tend to be the popular go-to outfit for a couples photo shoot, coordinating subtle patterns can add depth to your outfits. Stripes, polka dots, or small floral prints can be tastefully incorporated and in line with an easy-going aesthetic. Just be sure the patterns don’t clash, and opt for more solid colors than pattern to maintain a cohesive look.

What could be more comfortable? Both Paul and I love a good coordinated athleisure outfit! And if that is all you’re comfortable in, by all means, go for it! Athleisure wear offers a relaxed and contemporary vibe, and a casual couples photo shoot is the perfect time to consider embracing the athleisure trend. Coordinated tracksuits or leggings paired with oversized sweaters are a stylish ensemble. Sneakers or comfortable shoes are a must if you’re looking to create a sporty-chic look.

Accessories are not required, nor are they necessarily recommended in a casual photo shoot. But, they’re can be a great option and play a big part in tying your looks together. Consider matching accessories, such as coordinating hats, scarves, or sunglasses. But, again, simple rules for accessorizing are moderation and keeping it simple, stylish, and in line with the overall vibe of the photoshoot.

Paul and I like to tailor our outfits to the different environments of the photoshoot. If you’re shooting in an urban setting, opt for simple street-style-inspired looks, think casual darker colors here (black leather jackets, anyone?). If you’re a nature lover and want a beach or other outdoor photoshoot, choose breathable fabrics and lighter colors. Adapting your outfits to the surroundings will enhance the visual appeal of the photos and also create a more authentic connection to the environment.

Let’s not forget a barefoot in-home session. No matter what you’re wearing, barefeet always set a comfortable and casual tone. Of course, as long as you’re comfortable with your “dogs” out (as our teenagers so lovingly call it). :)

Neutrals are a foolproof and timeless choice for a classic feel photoshoot. Colors like black, white, and beige exude sophistication and pair well with other pops of color in the coordinating pieces and the environment. Mix and match neutrals for a coordinated yet effortless appearance.

Remember, you can always let your photographer know that you’d like to make a quick outfit change mid-shoot if you want more photo options! Just be sure to find out if there is more cost involved. The best advice we can give is to let your personalities shine through. Experiment with different styles, mix and match textures, and don’t be afraid to inject a bit of your unique flair into the mix. Ultimately, the goal is to capture the essence of your relationship in a series of timeless, beautifully coordinated photographs that you can cherish for years to come. The most important thing is to have a good time and oh-so-much fun together!