What to Wear for Engagement Photos in the Black Hills

As a South Dakota wedding photographer, one of the most common questions couples ask before their Black Hills engagement session is what to wear. And honestly, your outfit choices make a huge difference in how relaxed, confident, and connected you feel on camera. My goal is always to help you feel like the truest version of yourselves, which is why I share these simple, tried-and-true tips with every couple I photograph. Many of these recommendations come directly from the guidance I give in my Couple’s Handbook, where I encourage comfort, natural movement, and choosing outfits that feel like you rather than something overly “posed” or stiff. Let’s dive into what creates a great engagement photo outfit for your Black Hills session

Whether we’re meeting in Custer State Park, hopping between pine forests and rolling meadows, or chasing golden hour on a quiet trail, here’s how to choose outfits that feel timeless and look beautiful in the Black Hills landscape.

Start with What Feels Comfortable and True to You

The best engagement photo outfits are the ones that help you breathe, laugh, move, and be yourselves. In your Couple’s Handbook, I emphasize that comfort is the most important deciding factor. If you’re wearing something itchy, tight, or fussy, you’ll spend the session adjusting instead of enjoying the moment, and I promise the camera picks up on that.

Think about:

• Clothes you already feel confident in
• Fabrics that move with you instead of against you
• Styles that match your personalities, whether relaxed, playful, or classic

When you feel good, your photos feel good.

Choose Movement-Friendly Fabrics

During an engagement session, we’re often walking, twirling, lifting, or cozying into the landscape. Flowy dresses, soft sweaters, layered textures, and flexible pants photograph beautifully because they allow movement, which is something I encourage in all my sessions to keep your photos natural and connected.

Avoid anything stiff or rigid. Pieces with gentle motion look incredible against the pine-backed hills, grassy overlooks, and glowing sunset light.

Keep the Black Hills Landscape in Mind

The location plays a huge role in how your outfits appear on camera, which is why I always encourage couples to consider tones and textures that feel at home in the scenery. In my handbooks, I remind couples to let the environment guide their wardrobe choices so the final gallery feels cohesive and natural .

Colors that always look beautiful:

• Earthy tones like sage, tan, charcoal, cream, or dusty blue
• Warm neutrals that complement pine forests and rock formations
• Soft pastels that glow during golden hour

Patterns:
Subtle prints are great; bold patterns can compete with the outdoor landscape.

Avoid:
Neon colors, super-dark blacks, or anything that reflects light harshly.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

Instead of identical outfits, aim for pieces that complement each other.
Think in terms of tones, textures, and overall vibe rather than matching shirts.

A few easy combinations:

• A flowy neutral dress + your partner in earthy layers
• A cozy fall sweater + your partner in denim and boots
• Soft linen outfits for summertime meadow sessions

Coordinating outfits creates an elevated, effortless look without feeling overly styled.

Bring Two Outfits (If You Want Variety)

Most couples bring one casual outfit and one slightly dressier option. This helps create a gallery with variety while still feeling cohesive. A wardrobe change can also shift the tone of your session, from playful and relaxed to soft and romantic.

If you’re unsure, send me photos of your outfits and I’m happy to help you choose. Guiding couples through this is part of the experience I offer to help you feel prepared and excited for your session.

Plan for the Weather and Terrain

The Black Hills can bring sunshine, wind, or sudden temperature changes, sometimes all in one evening. Dressing in layers is one of the best ways to stay comfortable while still looking polished.

Consider:

• Jackets or cozy cardigans that complement your outfits
• Shoes that make sense for our location
• Avoiding anything too precious to get dusty

I’ll always recommend locations that are accessible and offer beautiful light, just like I describe in my Couple’s Handbook when guiding clients through choosing a setting that matches their vision and comfort level.

Add Meaningful Accessories

Hats, blankets, jewelry, or pieces with personal significance photograph beautifully when they feel intentional. A textured blanket is perfect for sitting in a meadow, and a wide-brim hat can bring movement and variety without overshadowing your faces.

The goal is not to create over-styled images. It’s to capture your connection with touches that feel like you.

Let Your Engagement Session Reflect Your Story

Your outfits should feel like an extension of your relationship, not a departure from it. When you choose pieces that feel comfortable, flattering, and true to who you are, your photos will reflect that natural connection I love capturing.

Your engagement session isn’t just a warm-up for wedding photos (though it absolutely helps you feel more confident on your wedding day). It’s a chance to document this season of your life — the excitement, the tenderness, and the quiet moments in between.

Ready for Your Black Hills Engagement Session?

If you’re dreaming up your own engagement photos in the Black Hills and want guidance on choosing a location or preparing for your session, I’m here to help you every step of the way.

You can explore more helpful resources on the blog or reach out to start planning your session together.

Engagement Session Galleries for Outfit Inspiration:

• Creative Engagement Session with Karissa and Michael
• Olivia and Christian’s Engagement Session at Wind Cave
• Iron Mountain Road Engagement Session with Emma and Jordan
• Needles Highway Engagement with Harrison and Emily