Okay, brides. If you’re like most of us, the days you’ll spend donning a gown and your finest accessories are numbered. So why not enjoy a day of pampering and a photo shoot that’s all your own, completely stress free? Do I have your attention? Let’s talk about the benefits of bridal portraits — and why you should definitely take them!

What is a Bridal Portrait Session?

A bridal portrait session is an extra photo shoot, specially for the bride. Typically taking place a few weeks or a month before the big day, this tradition dates all the way back to World War II! And while this session is super fun, these bridal portraits offer the opportunity to both celebrate and preserve the occasion of your wedding (and your days as a bride) for generations. 

Why should I take Bridal Portraits?

1. It’s the ultimate test run. A hair and makeup trial is likely on your to-do list already, right? So why waste your look on a day of errands? Scheduling a bridal portrait session in conjunction with your final fittings is a perfect trial for your beauty routine, hair style, makeup look, accessories — even your photographer! This is a great chance to get to know the person shooting your big day, and it helps them get a feel for your personality, too. It’s a win-win all around! 

2. Document the details… stress free! Let’s face it. You spend a lot of time and money choosing the perfect dress, the perfect shoes, the perfect jewelry, etc. So can there really be too many pictures of the finished look? This is a once-in-a-lifetime ensemble, and a really special time in your life! Capture the moment and commemorate your wedding day with a session that’s all about you. Spend the day getting glammed up, then enjoy showing off the details you’ve worked so hard to create without the tight wedding day schedule or other stresses of the big day.

3. Give yourself options. With a separate bridal shoot already out of the way, when the wedding day comes, you’ve already saved yourself a ton of time! More time means less stress, and more space for your photographer to capture the day itself, extra family photos, wedding party shots, etc. You’ll also have extra bridal portrait options to choose from for canvases, prints, framing, gifts, wedding albums… you get the idea. 

Tips for a successful Bridal Portrait session

1. Be creative! This is your chance to design your perfect photoshoot, so choose a unique location and let your personality shine.

2. Bring your squad. Will your mom, MOH or siblings be helping with your bussell or train? Will someone be on flyaway hair duty, or lipstick reapply reminder? Bring those helpers with you to your bridal portraits! It’s good practice for everyone so there’s no wardrobe surprises on the big day.

3. Have FUN! Since you’ll look gorgeous and have your besties in tow, why not make a day of it? Bridal portrait sessions are stress free, and a great opportunity to unbury yourself from the details and stresses of planning to focus on FUN. This chapter of your life will only happen once. It’s important to enjoy every minute! 

Ready to reach out? Check out my wedding and portrait packages, then click through some of my work. I believe your wedding should be an unforgettable experience, culminating in stunning, timeless photos that will make your heart swell — ones you’ll be proud to share for generations!