Wedding preparations are exciting but let’s face it, they can be overwhelming when you need to go over that never-ending to-do list to ensure everything is planned properly. From the dress to the venue decor and from your florals to planning the timeline, everything requires careful planning and diligence. And yet, one thing that most couples frequently overlook is the bridal photography session that happens before the wedding. The reason is that most of the brides-to-be have never heard about it.
Therefore, in this blog, I will give you all the details about bridals – what they are, why you should have one, and how to properly prepare.
So, let’s start by defining the concept:
What Is a Bridal Photography Session?
The bridal session is part of the wedding photography, but it happens before the day and is focused solely on the bride. It can also be referred to as a bridal trial, where the bride can test her makeup, hair, and dress. It is part of the European wedding tradition where the photographer takes photos of the bride in her full splendor – sometime before the wedding day.
Since this is not an originally American tradition, couples are often unaware of its existence. So, when choosing a wedding photographer, you should ask them to list all the services they provide and whether this is an option for you.
Why Should You Do a Bridal Photography Session?
There are countless advantages, and I will discuss the major ones sourced from my personal experience. By opting for this photography session, you will get the chance to:
Test the Bridal Look
There is nothing worse for a bride on her special day but to realize that her hair and makeup don’t fit in with her vision or suddenly she realizes she wants to change it. And these are only two instances. What about the dress? Does it fit right? Or the jewelry? The bridal bouquet? All of these components come together to form the final vision that the beautiful bride was dreaming of. So, being able to test them all before the big event can save so much unnecessary stress.
2. Rehearse the Poses
Not every bride can pose naturally, so having the chance to rehearse this in your chosen bridal dress beforehand is absolutely a plus! This is also an opportunity for the bride and the photographer to get comfortable in each other’s presence. You can explore many poses, have fun with your photographer, and discover which ones are the most natural. Your photographer, on the other hand, can better understand your vision when it comes to your wedding photography preferences. This will result in building a connection and understanding one another. From both bride and photographer perspective, this is such a huge advantage and reason for choosing to do a bridal session!
3. Reduce the Stress on the Wedding Day
By now you can probably sense the tension that might arise on the wedding day from having to do so many things in so little time. Makeup, hair, couple photography, church ceremony, cocktail, and so on the list continues. The highlight of the wedding day is not the bride itself, but both partners, so many times the bride's portraits are rushed. The result – a disappointed bride. In this way, you will get to savor your special moments in a relaxed way and soak them all in! Plus, once you are comfortable around your photographer, which will allow things to run smoothly on the day itself.
4. Create Stunning Bridal Portraits
In contrast to the previous point, in the scenario where a bride photo op is included, you get the chance to create stunning portraits highlighting all the details that otherwise may not be noticed. Some examples are the bride’s shoes, various details like the veil, hairpiece, and elegant jewelry. The location is another advantage. The couple’s wedding photoshoot session may be limited in the choice of location, but for the bridal portraits, you can choose another one and add variety to your album. You can go to the beach, or the nearby hill with a breathtaking view and take the photos you have always dreamt of. In addition, this pre-wedding photo shoot gives you the chance to show off your bridal photos at the reception and wow your guests with your authentic allure!
5. Take the Pressure off the Groom
To be honest, brides enjoy taking photos much more than grooms do. By dedicating a photography session completely to yourself, you can take as much time as you want and practice all the possible poses. This will help in creating impeccable couples’ photography because you will have had enough practice. If you have read this far, you must be wondering what the best way would be to prepare for a bridal session. Worry not, I have prepared a checklist.
How To Properly Prepare for Your Bridal Photography Session
Pick the Location
You should talk with your wedding photographer about which location would be the most fitting. Not all places look good at any light of the day and any time of the year. Additionally, the photographer has already shot at different locations, so they can advise you from personal experience which sites make the most stunning portrait backdrops.
Discuss the Time and Date
The time and date of the bridals would largely depend on when the wedding dress is finished. The availability of nail, hair, makeup, and floral assistants could also play an important part. Therefore, you need to coordinate with them all before setting a time and date. It is recommended that the bridal photoshoot is taken about a month before the wedding day so that you can have enough time to make the necessary adjustments, should they be needed.
Make a List
Once you decide on the time, date, and location; it is advisable to make a list of items you will need for the session. Think wedding dress, shoes, veil, jewelry, bouquet, and anything you think that may complement your authentic personality and story. By planning early, you will be sure not to forget anything. A bouquet really is a huge touch that is often forgotten in a bridal session.
The Bottom Line
The bridal photography session is a perfect choice to take a breather from your planning and soak in all the moments. To relish in the process and get the chance to admire your bridal beauty before the wedding!
Does the thought of having a bridal photography session sound compelling to you? Then feel free to discover my portfolio or reach out to me for more details! I would love to take part in the portrayal of your bridal vision and capturing these magical moments!
Comments