What to Wear as a Wedding Photographer: Wedding-Ready Outfits

As a wedding photographer, you’re not just attending a wedding—you’re working one of the longest, most physically demanding days of your week. You’re constantly on your feet, crouching down, climbing stairs, and weaving through guests to capture every perfect moment. So what you wear really matters.

Here’s what I’ve learned over the years (and 300+ weddings!) about the best wedding-ready outfits for photographers that let you move, feel good, and still look like you belong at a wedding.

1. Stick to Dark, Neutral Colors (Yes, Black is Best!)

Wearing black or dark tones keeps you looking polished and professional, and helps you blend in during the ceremony and reception. Light colors can draw attention or stand out in reflections. Think of yourself as a visual ninja—you want to disappear into the background, not distract from the couple.

2. Footwear is EVERYTHING: Wear What You Can Walk In (All Day Long)

Let’s be honest—you’ll be on your feet for 8–12 hours straight. Comfort is non-negotiable.

My go-to wedding day shoe? Crocs—yes, really! Specifically their ballet flat and wedge styles that are cute and comfy. I even wrote a whole blog about them here: Read the Crocs blog post. And here’s a direct link to my favorite pair: Shop my Crocs.

You might also try:

• Comfortable sneakers with a sleek look
• Dress shoes with memory foam soles
• Ballet flats that are washable!

Whatever you choose, break them in before wedding day.

3. Dresses Are Great—With a Smart Layer

If you wear a dress, do yourself a favor and ALWAYS wear biker shorts underneath. I’ve had windy days where my dress flew straight up into my face! Thank goodness for those shorts.

Plus, biker shorts:

• Keep you covered when you’re squatting or climbing
• Let you attach a mic pack if needed
• Add a layer of comfort throughout the day

Look for midi-length, flowy dresses that allow full range of motion and don’t wrinkle easily. I’ll include a few of my favorite wedding-ready outfits below!

4. Yoga Work Pants for the Win

I live in these on wedding days—stretchy, comfy, and they look like real pants. Look for:

• Bootcut or slim fit styles
• Moisture-wicking fabrics
• Pockets (bonus!)

Pair them with a nice blouse or tucked tee, and you’re good to go.

5. Don’t Forget Your iWatch In Your Wedding-Ready Outfit Planning!

My Apple Watch is a must-have every wedding day. Here’s why:

• Keeps me on schedule without checking my phone
• Lets me send quick messages to my second shooter
• Helps me time entrances, speeches, and key moments

Pro tip: Set silent timers for things like bride getting dressed, golden hour portraits, or reception transitions.

6. My Secret Weapon: The Spider Holster

I can’t imagine shooting a wedding without my Spider Holster. It keeps my cameras secure and accessible so I’m not constantly switching straps or setting gear down.

I’ve tried everything—neck straps, harnesses, sling straps—you name it. They all left me sore, stiff, and dealing with back and neck pain the next day. The Spider Holster changed that.

Why I love it:

• Holds 1–2 cameras hands-free
• Attaches securely to your waist
• You can add accessories for memory cards, batteries, and more

It’s comfortable, distributes weight evenly, and saves your shoulders and back!

7. A Few of My Favorite Pieces

Here are some items I keep in rotation:

• These Crocs flats
• Favorite black biker shorts
• Work-friendly yoga pants
• Flattering, flowy black dress
• My Spider Holster setup

8. Fake It to Shut It Down 

If you’re not married (or even if you are but don’t wear your ring while working), consider wearing a fake wedding ring—especially for those long receptions.

I’ve had second shooters (particularly when they were younger) who wore a simple ring to avoid unwanted attention from tipsy guests. Wedding days can be full of love… and occasionally a little too much from a wedding who’s had one too many.

Wearing a ring can subtly send a “taken” message without having to deal with awkward conversations or distractions when you’re just trying to do your job.

It’s not something I’ve personally needed in years (one of the perks of getting older 😅), but for newer photographers, it can be a smart, low-key move for peace of mind.

Final Tips:

• Pack layers—some venues are freezing, others are HOT.
• Consider weather (umbrellas, rain boots, winter coats that still look professional)

You want to show up as a calm, capable, put-together professional—but that doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. When you feel good, you shoot better. Period.

Got any favorite wedding-ready outfits? Drop them in the comments—I’m always looking for new recs!