How to prepare for a couple's photo session in the Alps

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How to prepare for a couple’s photo session in the Alps

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A couple in hiking clothes stands kissing in front of an alpine landscape during their couple's photo session

In the mountains, choosing outfits for outdoor couples photos is about function as well as aesthetic. You can’t sacrifice safety for fashion in these environments. This guide is to ensure you have the right balance of both so you can be stylish AND safe while exploring beautiful outdoor locations for your engagement, proposal, pre or post wedding photos.

Preparing for your photo session in the mountains: outfits for adventure sessions

The first and most important safety measure for your outdoor photo session is your attire. And I’m not just talking about the outfit you want to wear for the pictures. I also mean: what are you going to wear to protect yourself from wind, rain or strong sun?

I always recommend having two outfits. One which will primarily be for the photos, and another which you have in case you need to layer up against the elements. In the best case, you always have a nice sweater, shawl or jacket to keep you warm that also looks nice with your outfit for the photos.

Do’s and Don’ts of Choosing Outfits for Outdoor Couples Photos

✅ Do: Choose Timeless, Earthy Tones

Stick with solid, mostly neutral or earthy colors for the most timeless look. These tones keep the focus on your emotions, connection, and the surrounding landscape. They also photograph beautifully without casting unnatural reflections onto the skin.

If you’d like to wear a bolder solid color, coordinate it with the environment for contrast. Reds and yellows pop against blue or green landscapes, while emerald greens and sapphire blues look beautiful almost anywhere. Light blues and lavenders are especially lovely for spring sessions.

🚫 Don’t: Wear Bright, Distracting Colors

Avoid very saturated, bright, or neon colors that clash with the natural surroundings. Loud colors will pull attention away from you and create unnatural color casts on the skin in photos.

✅ Do: Wear Solid Colors

Solid colors photograph best and create a clean, polished look that keeps attention where it belongs — on you, your connection and the beautiful landscapes.

🚫 Don’t: Wear Patterns, Logos, or Words

Avoid busy patterns, graphics, logos, or clothing with large text. Patterns can appear distorted on camera, and logos or words become distracting in photos. Instead of focusing on your faces and emotions. We want to avoid drawing the eye to the clothing.

✅ Do: Wear light, loose layers you can move in

This is dependent on season and weather, but try to stick to cuts and fabrics which move and breathe with you. For pants, opt for looser fits. For skirts and dresses, fabrics which are light (tulle and silk) and move with the wind create atmosphere in windy conditions.

🚫 Don’t: Wear tight or restrictive clothing

Don’t wear pants which are very tight or restrict your range of motion. Tight bodices in dresses can rub and restrict breathing also.

Choosing the right shoes: sneakers or hiking boots are non-negotiable

I therefore always recommend having two types of shoes.

There should be one shoe that is appropriate for the location and activity, and one shoe that you like for the photos. You can change in and out of them as often as you like. During summer and at some locations, it’s perfectly fine to walk a short distance in sandals or open toed shoes. However, always bring a bag with a change of shoes along.

Weather can change fast, and blisters can make walking unbearable. Do not find yourself out in the mountains with poor footwear, no matter how great the weather looks when you leave the hotel.

Other important things to bring for your session

Since your session will take place outdoors and in the mountains, there are a couple other things I always recommend you bring. Here is a list, but remember to consider the time of year, location and activity as well.

Any backpack similar to these for…
Snacks and water
Sunscreen
Rain jacket
Sweater or scarf
Pocket mirror, brush and makeup for touch ups
Tissues
Cash – if we happen across an alpine hut or cafe during/after the session, many are cash only!

Looking for a local photographer to the alps?

Hi! I’m Mariah. I am an elopement photographer based along the Italian and Austrian border. I specialize in intimate destination weddings and adventure elopements all across Europe.

I’m originally from the U.S., so I’m also the perfect bridge between cultures on your elopement day!

I truly want you to have the most relaxing and fun experience possible.

If you and your partner are looking for something low key and adventurous for your wedding photos, elopement or couple’s session, then I know the places, the vendors and the areas for you.

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