7 Easy Tips for What to Wear for a Couple Photoshoot Without Looking Matchy

7 tips on what to wear for a couple photoshoot

As a photographer I have some insight into what works and what does not. Here are my top tips from a photography perspective for what to wear for a couple photoshoot

1. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Matching outfits (like identical shirts or colours) can look flat in photos. Instead, aim for coordination. This sends the message that you belong together but you are still individuals, as well as being visually aesthetic and gives symmetry and is more visually appealing.

Choose a shared colour palette and vary the tones:

• Neutrals + soft earth tones always work well

• Mix light and dark shades of the same colour

• One partner can wear a subtle pattern while the other wears solids

This creates depth and keeps the focus on your connection.

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2. Wear Something That Feels Like You

If you feel uncomfortable, it shows in photos. So you need to wear something you would normally wear or at least feel comfortable in. You may be sitting, doing turns, or even lifts in some of your photos and I want you to relax and have fun. Also dress for the temperature at your location – being too hot or cold will also give you a negative experience.

The best engagement photo outfits are:

• Comfortable

• Easy to move in

• True to your style

Flowy dresses, linen shirts, knitwear, or relaxed tailoring often photograph beautifully because they move naturally.

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3. Keep Patterns and Logos Minimal

Large logos and bold prints can distract from your faces and interaction.

If using patterns:

• Keep them small or subtle

• Let only one partner wear them

• Balance with simple tones

Simple outfits age better and keep attention on you.

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4. Think About the Location

Your environment matters when choosing couple photoshoot outfits. Think about the location you will be using and the time of year – are there green or brown tones? Are you in the city or out in nature? Choose a location that speaks to you and the outfit will come easier to you.

For example:

• Nature locations → earth tones, creams, greens

• Urban settings → structured outfits, layered looks

• Beach or dunes → light fabrics, soft neutrals

If you’re planning a couple photoshoot in Utrecht or anywhere in the Netherlands, soft colours often work beautifully against natural landscapes and historic streets.

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5. Add Texture and Layers

Texture makes photos feel rich without being busy. It will help to break up monotone or solid colours, and can give a photo a different look or feel with accessories which are quick to add or change.

Good options include:

• Knits

• Linen

• Jackets

• Scarves

• Layered fabrics

Texture adds dimension and visual interest.

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6. Consider Two Outfits

If time allows, bring:

• One casual look

• One slightly dressier look

This gives variety without needing multiple locations.

Many couples use this approach for engagement photo outfits so they get both relaxed and polished images. But be sure before you do this that there are facilities for you to change your outfit at the location. And that extra time may be required for multiple outfits.

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7. Simple Accessories Work Best

Accessories should complement, not dominate:

• Minimal jewellery

• Neutral shoes

• A classic watch

• Soft hats or scarves

Small details elevate an outfit without distraction.

Leanne and Elroy chose soft, neutral tones that worked beautifully together without matching exactly. Their outfits suited the location and allowed them to move comfortably. The location was rustic – dirt roads and brown veld grass  – wide open spaces and eucalyptus trees.

Because they felt relaxed and confident, their connection became the focus — not their clothes.

That’s always the goal in a couple or loveshoot session.