Now that you’re all on board with why a bridal session is an incredible addition to any wedding photography package (if you missed the post, check it out here!), here are a few of my favorite tips for how to have the perfect fine art bridal photography session.

 

 

 

Think About the Perfect Setting

Picking the perfect setting for your bridal session will set the stage for how your bridal photos will look. Are you dreaming of something timeless and elegant? Consider a historic estate, like Biltmore or Graylyn, or mansion like The Anderson House or Glenview. Do you want a session that is more modern and simple, with the focus on unique posing and stunning details? Consider a minimal and modern downtown location, or even a photography studio with a custom backdrop. While you absolutely can schedule your bridal portrait session for the same venue as your wedding, brides often opt to find a different location for their sessions so that they can have a different look than the wedding day portraits.

 

 

Coordinate with your Vendors

Obviously, you’ll want to connect with your hair and makeup team, as well as the shop doing your bridal gown alterations, when planning your bridal session. But consider connecting with the wedding vendors that you don’t typically think of when planning this special session. Maybe you talk to your wedding florist, to get a sample bouquet for your bridal session so that you can see how your plans for your wedding day florals will photograph on film. You could even reach out to your wedding planner/stylist to see if they would be willing to come assist in styling your bridal session, especially if you opt for a studio session. They may require an additional fee to style your studio bridal session, but it could lead to some truly special and creative bridal portraits.

 

 

 

Pop some Champagne, and Have fun!

Your bridal session, above all else, should be fun. Plan for a friend to join you with some snacks and champagne (all very light colored, of course, so you don’t stain your dress!) to celebrate this special time before you walk down the aisle.

 

 

 

Want more? Keep scrolling to see a few creative studio bridal portrait sessions from bridal sessions in Washington, DC.

 

 

All wedding dresses pictured are designed by Viktor and Rolf, florals and styling by Kaleb Norman James.