You’ve scheduled your wedding photographer for your ceremony and reception, but what about a private bridal session just for you? Think of it as a dress rehearsal in front of the camera. Not only will a bridal portrait session give you a chance to meet and work with your photographer one-on-one before the wedding, you’ll also get comfortable moving around in your wedding dress. It also helps you see how your bridal look will photograph! Schedule your hair and makeup trial for the day of your session so you can try out your complete look. 

At your portrait session, your wedding photographer will capture a ton of photos of you in your gown so you won’t have to devote as much time to solo shots on your big day. The less stress, the better! The day goes by so fast, you’ll appreciate having the extra time to devote to formal portraits of you and your other half, family portraits, and candids.

Additionally, portrait sessions are a good excuse to visit your venue and scope out the layout for those must-have shots. We also really like the idea of having bridal portraits at a special location that you’ve loved or admired, even it’s a site completely unrelated to your wedding reception or ceremony location. We’ve seen some really lovely sessions at garden clubs, arboretums, and state parks. Just be sure to plan ahead with these tips:

1. Schedule your hair and makeup trial for the same day as your portrait session. That way, you can test out your look on camera and see if you want to tweak anything. You’ll also be able to see how well it wears throughout the day! If you’re not able to coordinate your trials with your session, have a talented friend or family member help you recreate your look.

2. Ask your florist to arrange a smaller bouquet similar to what you will be carrying on the big day. You’ll get a feel for how the shape, color and texture combo appears on camera. If you plan on wearing a flower crown don’t forget to request this, too!

3. It’s crucial to wear the shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day to see how they feel and look. After the session, you’ll know if you should stash a pair of flats or flip flops to dance in at the reception. Wearing your shoes beforehand will help also break them in for the big day.

4. Along with all your other necessary preparations, make sure to check for site fees or photography permits at your bridal session location.

By the time the big day arrives, you’ll be a pro in front of the camera. The best part? You won’t have a mile-long shot list to stress over!

After you’ve had your session and you’ve got your beautiful keepsakes in hand, what do you do with them? We love the idea of having an album made up for your spouse-to-be, or having a few of your favorites framed for parents and family members. Bridal portraits are a great way to commemorate your once-in-a-lifetime experience of being a bride!