Consider budgeting for a bridal portrait session before your wedding
In case you’re not familiar with the term, a bridal portrait session is one that is of the bride only. This session is typically done one month before the wedding, although some brides choose to do it on the wedding day or the day after. These photos are typically displayed at the wedding.
One main advantage of doing a bridal portrait session is that you get to see what the whole ensemble looks like before your wedding day. Since your portraits will be done with everything – dress, veil, jewelry, etc. you will get a chance to see how everything works together before your actual wedding. If you decide that you don’t like the way your earrings go with your necklace, you can change it out. Nobody will notice from the pictures if you’re changing minor details. Wearing your dress for a photo session before your wedding will also help you to determine logistical items for the big day, such as comfort of your undergarments and the easiest way to sit down, get through doors, and even use the facilities… hey – it’s going to happen anyway, might as well know the best way to work it!
The second main advantage to doing a bridal portrait session is by doing it on a different day than your wedding – is that you will look relaxed and happy. The stress from your wedding day will not show through in your portraits and you’ll have the opportunity to look your absolute best. You won’t be worrying about if you talked to everyone and if the cake is on time and if the seating chart will work – because you’re avoiding so many of these stresses bridal portraits are often considered much better than wedding day photos, and the difference will show. Just be sure to include the cost of this session in your budgeting.
Bridal portraits are typically taken somewhere other than the reception location. Sometimes brides will choose to have the session done the same place as engagement photos were taken. Ask your photographer if there is a location he/she would recommend and if they charge extra for a different location. Make sure that you choose a location that will show off your personal style as well as the beauty of your wedding gown and accessories. Ask your wedding photographer if they offer a package deal to include your bridal portrait session. If your wedding photographer won’t give you a good deal on your session, don’t hesitate to look for a different photographer. You might also want a photographer with a different style that better suits your personal style as well. Either way, make sure that you spend as much time choosing your bridal portrait photographer as you do your wedding day photographer.
Budgeting and planning for a bridal portrait session will leave you with beautiful portraits commemorating your wedding, for the rest of your life. Treat yourself to a photo session showing off you, relaxed and excited about your big wedding day.
