Katie and Chris are engaged! Don’t know them? This sweet and intimate engagement session by the river will make you feel like you do. These two wear their hearts on their sleeves, and they were totally down for an adventurous, authentic couple’s session. Their genuine friendship is so refreshing. They have that spark of romance for sure, but they’re also so at ease just laughing and having fun together. Katie and Chris enjoy each other’s company freely without holding back. I had a blast getting to know them and documenting this chapter of their love story. Before we knew it, our session had come to an end with hundreds of beautiful images to show. I hope you enjoy their sneak peek and find inspiration for your own adventure session! Looking for a Pennsylvania adventure photographer? I’d love to help–contact me here!
You may be surprised to know that this session took place right here in Pennsylvania. Understandably, Pittsburgh gets lots of attention with its cool industrial-chic vibes. But there’s plenty to discover for the nature-loving, adventure-seeking hearts too! I’m all for booking a flight, but feel free to check with me for adventures close to home. I’ve got quite a few hidden gems in mind that I think you’re going to love. Grab your hiking boots, and let’s hit the trails! Plus, we can get in a few river romping photos while it’s still warm. Yep, you will get wet.
With that in mind, you’re probably down to get a little dirty—but I’m sure you want to look nice while doing it. What to wear for an adventure session is a common question I get from couples. Katie and Chris’ engagement photoshoot is the perfect example!
5 Tips on What to Wear for Your Adventure Session
1. Bring multiple outfits.
Engagement sessions typically call for 2-3 outfit changes, depending on how much time we have an how many locations we visit. As your adventure photographer, I optimize our time by scouting to find the best location with a variety of backdrops so we don’t have to commute by car. That way, we can save travel time and give you more flexibility for outfit changes. While we may only use 2 outfits, I recommend bringing one or two extra pieces just in case we really get down and dirty on a hike or in the river.
2. Opt for mix and match pieces.
On that note, if you aren’t wearing a dress, I recommend clothing items you can layer and mix and match. That way, if one piece gets dirty, you can easily swap it out without changing your entire outfit. Tanks, button downs, tees, wraps, shorts, and skirts are easy to swap out. Consider your hair and makeup, too! You may not want a form-fitting top that has to go over your head.
3. Neutrals and earth-tones photograph beautifully!
YOU are the stars of the show. I love me some color and funky prints, but I almost always opt for neutrals or pastels for photo sessions. If you go with neutrals and earth tones, you won’t have to fuss with matching and coordination, and it’s easy to mix and match. If one of you needs to change, the other can keep their outfit, and you’ll still complement each other well.
4. Consider sun dresses and flowy frocks.
Dresses that accentuate your form (i.e. no boxy shift dresses) and have a loose, flowy skirt photograph exceptionally well for outdoor sessions. Most flowy dresses are cool enough for the warmer months and allow plenty of movement for hiking and exploration. Consider a fabric that is breathable and dries quickly. I’m in love with Katie’s dresses, and you can see they didn’t get in the way of our adventures, either.
5. Footwear matters!
Last but not least, please protect your feet! If you’re dying to wear something a bit more fashionable (like Katie’s adorable sling back heels), don’t forget to pack some boots or tennis shoes for hiking. Hiking boots or something similar enhance your venture vibes. (Check Steve Madden and Doc Martens AirWair styles.) Remember, your feet will show in photos. So make sure your footwear goes with your outfit.
Visit Jessee Allen Photography for More Adventures!
For more engagement and wedding resources and inspiration, visit the Jessee Allen Photography blog or follow me on Instagram @jesseeallenphotography. Thanks for choosing me as your adventure photographer!
[…] two are back again on the blog! First, you saw their incredible hiking engagement session, and their wedding day was everything you might imagine from these two smiley people and […]