Wedding Prep 101! Today we’re sharing a few tips on how to get the most out of your bridal portrait session. What are bridal sessions you ask? Southern in tradition, bridal portraits take place when the bride, minus her beau, takes photos in her full bridal attire; hair/makeup, jewelry – and (drum roll please!) the veil, bouquet and dress are also included.
Bridal sessions typically take place 1-2 months before the wedding and are a fun way for the bride to curb her wedding jitters while getting a trial run for picture taking on the big day. The photos are often given as a gift or displayed at the ceremony on wedding day.
Brides-to-be grab a notepad to jot down our tips on how to nail your bridal portrait session while viewing accompanying photos by Cesar Chavez Photography.
Hair & Makeup Trial
Brides, please don’t try your hand at your own hair and makeup! You should make sure to schedule the trial on the same day as the shoot. Getting your hair and makeup done for the bridal session is a great way to get an idea of how things will run on the “big day”. Not only will it give you the opportunity to try out those “inspiration looks” that you’ve been gathering for months but a chance to also test out your hair and makeup artists to ensure those are who you want to use on wedding day.
Photographer Chemistry
Bridal sessions are prime time to see your photographer “in action”. This will offer you the opportunity to get better acquainted with them and will ultimately allow you to feel more comfortable entrusting them to capture your big day.
Timing & Location
Properly planning your bridal session is key, because while it may seem simple, there are many elements that must be factored in. If you’re planning an outdoor or indoor bridal session, chose a location with lots of natural light and one that will offer the versatility to shoot indoors or out. This is important in cases of mother nature raining on your parade. And speaking of mother nature, please consider selecting a rain date (and informing your vendors in advance) for your bridal session, just in case!
Accessories, Florals & Props
Request that your wedding day florist make up a mock bouquet. You should also make sure to bring along all of the accessories you plan to wear on wedding day. This will be the perfect moment to view how they look when paired with your gown – and anything that doesn’t look quite right can be adjusted for the big day! Including props within the shoot are also an awesome way to showcase your personality in order for your portraits to be as unique as you!
Bring A Friend
Last but not least, make sure to bring someone along (ie; your mom or maid-of-honor) to help assist, ease those awkward moments when the bridal session first begins, and also offer you coaching advice on your model poses.
Credits
Photographer: Cesar Chavez, Cesar Chavez Photography
Designer: Sheri Autry, Sheri Autry Couture
Venue: Montpelier Mansion
Makeup Artist: Micaela Orsolini, Ella Beauty LLC
Hair Stylist: Trenice Brown
Floral Designer: Maher’s Florist
Caterer: Katelyn Machnica, Catering by Uptown
Event Planner: Yamila Chacon, JUST PERFECT by YC, LLC
Second Shooter: Adina Baker, Bliss Culture Photography
Model: Jasmine Collins
