One of the first questions I get after a couple books a session is, "What should we wear?" It's a simple question, but I know the weight behind it. You want to look like the best version of yourselves, feel connected in the photos, and not spend weeks stressing over it. The goal isn't to turn you into someone you're not; it's to choose clothes that let your connection shine through. This is my practical guide to getting it right, without the drama.
Aim for Harmony, Not a Perfect Match
The most common mistake I see is couples trying to wear the exact same colors. The goal is to complement each other, not to wear a uniform. Think of your two outfits as a single, cohesive palette. When you stand together, the colors and styles should feel balanced and intentional. For instance, if one of you chooses a dress with a subtle floral pattern, the other can wear a solid-colored shirt that pulls one of the quieter tones from that pattern. This creates a visual link that is sophisticated and natural, rather than forced.
Build Around a Single "Hero" Outfit
Don't try to plan both outfits at once. It's much easier to start with one piece that one of you absolutely loves and feels incredible wearing. This could be a favorite dress, a well-fitting jacket, or a shirt that just feels right. Once you have that anchor piece – the "hero" outfit – you can build the second look around it. This approach simplifies the process immensely and guarantees that at least one of you is starting from a place of confidence, which is essential for a relaxed photo shoot.
Choosing a Palette for Lisbon's Landscape
The city itself provides the perfect backdrop, so we want your outfits to work with it, not fight against it. Lisbon is a city of soft pastels, sun-bleached terracotta, and iconic blue azulejo tiles. Outfits in earthy tones – like ochre, beige, rust, and muted blues – always look incredible here. These colors harmonize with the environment, whether we're shooting against the ancient walls of the Castelo de S. Jorge or the modern lines of the MAAT museum. I generally advise against very bright neons or large, distracting logos, as they pull focus from you and the beautiful setting.
Comfort Is Crucial, Especially on Cobblestones
This might be the most important advice I can give. If you are uncomfortable, it will show in the photos. This goes beyond just liking how an outfit looks; it's about how it feels to move in it. We will be walking, sitting, and exploring, and you can't do that naturally if you're constantly adjusting a strap or pulling at a hem. This is especially true for footwear in Lisbon. The city's charming 'calçada portuguesa' (cobblestone sidewalks) are beautiful but unforgiving. Please, leave the brand-new stilettos at home. Opt for stylish block heels, elegant flats, or even clean, minimalist sneakers. Your feet will thank you, and your relaxed posture will make for much better photographs.
Use Texture and Layers for Depth
Photographs love texture. Incorporating different materials adds a layer of visual interest that makes your images feel more dynamic and rich. Think about mixing fabrics like linen, soft knits, denim, or silk. Layers are also your best friend. A light jacket, a soft cardigan, or a scarf not only adds dimension to your look but also gives you options as we move through different settings or as the light changes. It's a simple way to subtly alter your look during the shoot without needing a full outfit change. This works beautifully with Lisbon's often breezy weather, especially near the Tagus River.
How I Help You Prepare
You are not on your own in this process. I've worked with hundreds of people, most of whom have never been in front of a professional camera before. I know that feeling comfortable is the key to getting photos that feel genuine. My job starts long before I pick up the camera. I am always here to consult on your outfits. You can send me photos of your ideas, and I'll give you honest, practical feedback based on our chosen locations and the light we'll be working with. My goal is to remove the guesswork so that on the day of the shoot, you can simply relax and focus on each other. I'll handle the rest.