What is a Bridal Photo Shoot And Why I Believe You Should Consider Doing One?

I recently photographed the most classical bridal portraits in San Francisco and that beautiful session brought me here today with the idea to talk more about the bridal portraits. We all focus on the wedding day as a whirlwind of joy and emotions, but capturing those epic bridal portraits can sometimes feel like a race against time. That can easily be avoided with a dedicated, bridal portrait session.

What exactly is a bridal photoshoot?

A bridal session is a dedicated photoshoot - usually one or two months prior to the wedding day, where the brides wear a selection of outfits - rehearsal dinner dress, after party dress, or even her main bridal gown. The possibilities here are endless and may include even a boudoir portion - I’m still obsessed with the nude portraits on polaroids that I recently photographed - but let’s get back to the bridal photo session.

Why have a Bridal photo session?

I can personally give you so many reasons here: from the legacy perspective a bridal photoshoot could be an empowering gift to yourself. A photoshoot like that allows you to practice being comfortable in front of the camera and also will allow you to spend time with your photographer (and trust me if they are a professional - they will be your biggest cheerleader and fan, not to mention the experience). Preparing for a session like that you can test an interesting make up and hair style, and many different the fashion options - you can use all the different outfits you have for your wedding weekend, or even add more (and don’t forget the jewelry and accessories). Another very important part here is to mention that this is completely stress free environment, it is not the wedding weekend, where you have timelines and many people around you.

What should you do with the photos?

The possibilities are endless, but for the modern bride with an eye for design, a luxurious coffee table book showcasing your portraits is a stunning option. This past year, I had the privilege of working with a bride named Maya, whose family heirloom was a century-old wedding album. Her bridal session was meticulously crafted to create photographs that would seamlessly blend into this exquisite family record. Maya even wore her wedding gown adorned with her grandmother's traditional veil, adding a touch of sentimental elegance. As a historian, I was deeply humbled to be a part of this extraordinary moment, and as an artists - it was an honor that my art will stay there for generations to come.

Logistics - do I need to prepare anything?

No! This is not a session to stress you out (especially when you are in the wedding process), but one that you can relax and enjoy.And it is my part to make suggestion, create mood board and discuss with you all the ideas you may have and would love to create. So if you consider a bridal portrait session, don’t hesitate to get in touch and let's chat about crafting a bridal session that's as unique and unforgettable as you are.

In this bridal portrait session Lilah is wearing a custom crafted excuisite bridal gown by Atelier Des Modistes in San Francisco. And the beautiful florals of my favorite snowdrops are created by the talented Maggie from M Flora Design.