What Photographers Wear to Weddings

FOR HER

When I was a brand new photographer in the wedding industry, I searched the internet high and low for someone to tell me exactly how I should dress to impress and attract high end luxury clients. By nature, I’m a rule follower. Ennegram 1 here (raises hand and waves). To my surpirse, I had SUCH a hard time finding recommendations on what I should wear, what shoes were the most comfortable, what gear I should carry… I really wanted someone to lay it all out for me, and I was so disappointed when my search results turned up NOTHING. So… I’m here to be your guide. In this post, I’ll tell you exactly what wedding photographers should wear and where to purchase.

My name is Ariel. I’m the owner and lead photographer of Magnolia West Photography. I provide a luxury wedding photography experience for modern yet sentimental couples in Los Angeles and beyond! Whether you’re a photographer who is new to the industry, or you’re a seasoned veteran looking to step up your game, I’m here to help. Keep scrolling for links to the clothes and shoes that I actually wear, links to my pinterest board for outfit inspo, and last but not least, we can’t forget the guys. There’s a video at the bottom by my friend Craig of Endeavored Threads. He’s a custom suit designer and tailor and clothes some of the top male photographers in the industry. Be sure to check out his video at the end of this post. If you’re a male photographer looking to level up your game, be sure to check him out.

All the links for what photographers should wear can be found below. I hope you find a few helpful nuggets in here. If you do, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a comment at the end and let me know what you found most helpful.

Let’s Talk Clothes

what wedding photographers should wear

At Magnolia West, we wear black. It’s in my contract for all of my associate shooters. You may ask, why do wedding photographers wear black? For me, there are a few reasons.

Black is professional and classy.

If we’re all in black, the guests know exactly who we are and what we are doing.

Black gives a cohesive look to my team.

Black allows you to blend in with the background.

Here are a few outfit examples of what I wear to weddings.

Wedding Photographer Wardrobe Staples

Black Jumpsuits for Female Photographers

three examples of female wedding photographer outfits

Jumper Links: Calvin Klein | Express | Shein

In my opinion, the best outfit a female wedding photographer can wear to a wedding is a jumpsuit. This way you don’t have to worry about your skirt blowing up, your shirt coming untucked, or your pants sliding down. You always look polished and put together. Now just throw on a blazer to complete the look!

Black Blazers for Female Photographers

classy black bazers for professional female photographers

Blazer Links: Lilysilk | Zara

I always wear a blazer even when it’s hot. It provides an extra touch of class and elevates the simplest clothing. The Balmain blazer is an iconic fashion piece and synonymous with luxury style. However, the price point, at a cool $3000, might be a little rich for photographers new to the industry. Lilysilk provides a beautiful alternative to the iconic double breasted blazer for a fraction of the price.

Black Pants for Female Photogaphers

Pants Links: Express | Banana Republic | Spanx

Any black pants will do. When I’m not wearing a jumpsuit, I wear a pair of basic, slim leg black pants with a black blouse tucked in.

Tops for Female Photographers

Blouse Links: Express | Shein 1 | Shein 2 | Shein 3

These are all tops that I actually own. I don’t spent a lot on tops. I get bored easily and like to buy new ones often. Instead, I prefer to splurge on blazers and shoes. Don’t forget, if you’re trying to impress luxury clients, don’t forget to tuck in that shirt and add a belt!

The Best Shoes for Female Photographers

Pro Tip: The fuzzy Amazon slipppers are for the car ride home!!! Your feet with thank you! It should go without saying, but please do not wear them in front of your clients. I keep them in my car and slip them on for the drive home. It feels like heaven on my feet after a long wedding day.

I personally own all five pairs of these shoes. I take three pairs of shoes with me to a wedding. Venue and weather permitting, I almost always start in my Gucci heels. Growing up, my parents had a saying, “First impression. Lasting impression.” Those words have stuck with me throughout my life and especially in my career. You have one opportunity to make a first impression and it happens in a matter of seconds. Does she look luxurious? Is her hair well groomed? Does she care about her appearance? Does she smell good? Dress to impress (at least at the beginning of the day).

I typically stay in my heels until the reception. During the reception I usually change into my Rothy’s or a pair of Birdies. Update 10/16/23: I recently bought a pair of Vejas in my brand colors to wear during the dancing portion of the evening. I also purchased an additional arch support to replace the standard insert. They are a welcomed relief to my feet as soon as I put them on. Highly recommend! As an added bonus, my second shooter bought a pair too, so we match! 😉

“Rotating in a different style gives the foot and leg muscles a chance to rest by engaging different muscles. Changing your shoes during a lunch break or a shift can offer some relief. It’s like giving your feet a fresh start because they’re able to start working a different stress pattern.”
Dan Husom and Morynn Marx, Board Certified Pedorthists