What to Wear for a Shenandoah Engagement Session

WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION
IN SHENANDOAH

A couple holds hands while walking in a mountainous area during sunset.

Wahooo, you’ve reached this magical season and are PSYCHED to kick it off with the love of your life!! Whether you’ve chosen to have your engagement pictures taken in Shenandoah National Park, or you’re still deciding - seeing how what you wear impacts your photographs will be a helpful tool for inspiration!

Most importantly: wear whatever makes you feel totally awesome.

This blog entry is purely just guidance and inspiration from a visual-standpoint. The most important thing of all is you feel absolutely stellar in what you choose to wear for your session - and that will be the most beautiful. But, for those who simply have no idea where to even begin - this is for you.

TIP #1: Solid Neutrals

A couple sitting on rocks outdoors, embracing each other, with scenic mountains in the background during sunset.

Here’s the thing - your engagement session is about YOU. And, since you’ve chosen to have your sesh in Shenandoah, that means you also want to celebrate the beauty of nature and all she has to offer. The best way to focus on your expressions, your warm embraces, and the total blast you’re having in the mountains? Choosing solid neutrals for your outfits. Can you imagine how different that picture would be if her dress were hot pink? Or had massive polka dots? It would distract and detract from the whole vibe. Solid neutrals (or small, subtle prints) allow the focus to be on you among the magic of the mountains - exactly how it should be.

TIP #2: Contrast

A smiling couple walking together on a grassy field during sunset, embracing each other, with rolling hills and trees in the background.

A couple holding hands and walking in a mountainous landscape during sunset, with green bushes in the foreground and a wide view of the valley and mountains in the background.

A way to help pull the focus on you among the sweeping landscape is by selecting outfits that POP! Creating that contrast allows the eye to be drawn to you two, while also embracing the full picture. Deep dark tones work just as beautifully as lighter tones to draw the eye to you among all the rich tones of the mountains and sky.

TIP #3: Textures

A couple sitting in a field of tall grass and orange flowers, smiling and leaning on each other during sunset.

A young woman and man walk hand in hand through a field of yellow flowers and tall grass, smiling and enjoying a casual outdoor moment on a cloudy day.

Textures can play a beautiful part in adding your own touches of style to these suggestions. A knit/crocheted sweater, accessories like felt hats, the deep hues of denim - they all compliment the environment AND show you off, too!

TIP #4: Variety of Vibes

A young couple holding hands and smiling while walking on a grassy hillside with mountains and a sunset in the background.

A couple kissing in a field with their dog, a black and white Australian Shepherd, sitting in front of them.

A couple standing together in a forest during autumn, surrounded by tall trees with yellow and orange leaves.

Sometimes it’s hard to decide on just one look - and that’s totally okay, because you don’t have to! In fact, I often encourage couples to bring two outfits for their session: one casual, and one on the dressier side. Our sessions usually begin with more playful, movement-based interactions to get you loosened up and going with the flow. Then, we can maximize the epicness of sunset by bringing a little drama with a flowy dress in the wind, or a tailored chino pant!

At the end of the day, wear what makes you feel your best - and I’ll take care of the rest! (Hey, that rhymed!)