Tips for your Bridals

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A Day Just for Her: The Bridal Session

There are days a bride dreams about her whole life—and her bridal session is one of them. It's a special moment set aside for her to simply feel beautiful. This is the day she gets to step into the most stunning gown she’s ever worn, with hair and makeup done to perfection, and soak in the joy of being a bride.

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming at times, so I’ve put together this guide to help ease some of the stress and ensure your bridal session is everything it’s meant to be: fun, empowering, and unforgettable.

Why a Bridal Session Matters

Bridal sessions are especially popular in the South, and for good reason. While some brides use these portraits to create keepsakes for their parents or a groom’s cake table, others want a beautiful framed image to display at the reception. But beyond the photographs, this session serves an important purpose: it’s a chance to try out your wedding-day look—your gown, shoes, accessories, hair, and makeup—all before the big day. It also gives you a feel for moving in your dress and bouquet, so there are no surprises.

Best of all? It’s another opportunity (alongside your engagement shoot) to connect with your photographer, build trust, and get comfortable in front of the camera.

What to Bring

• Extra Shoes: Bring a backup pair for walking around—ideally close in height to your wedding shoes—so you don’t scuff your real ones before the big day.

• Accessories: Wedding shoes, veil or hairpieces, jewelry, rings, and of course, your bouquet (even a sample one) should come along.

• Touch-Up Essentials: Especially in warm places like South Louisiana, a small kit with powder, lip gloss, and hairspray can be a lifesaver.

• Your Hype Person: Bring someone who boosts your confidence and helps you feel fabulous—this makes a big difference when posing. They can also help carry things and assist with your dress.

Hair & Makeup Tips

Professional hair and makeup truly elevate your photos, creating a polished, camera-ready look. While many brides prefer something close to their everyday style, remember: this isn’t just any day. A bit of extra glam translates beautifully on camera and still feels like you—just an extra radiant version.

During the Session

• Let the Photographer Lead: Kindly ask any guests to refrain from taking their own photos. You’ve hired a professional for a reason, and distractions can take away from the magic being created.

• Check Venue Rules: Some locations limit how many people can attend—always confirm ahead of time.

• Protect the Dress: Ask your photographer if they’ll bring a clean blanket or plastic sheet to sit or lay on. If not, pack one yourself.

• Mind the Travel: The most common way dresses get dirty? Getting in and out of the car. Take your time and be careful if traveling between spots.

• Arrive On Time: Your photographer likely planned the start time based on ideal lighting—don’t miss it!

• Session Length: Bridal sessions can run anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and a half. Bring water, stay hydrated, and prepare to feel like a queen.

Final Thoughts

If you have specific photo ideas or poses in mind, send them to your photographer ahead of time—Pinterest boards are a great way to share your vision. And most importantly? Have fun. This is your time to shine! Without your groom there, you get to play up your expressions and own the spotlight. Confidence always shines through in your photos—so channel it, embrace it, and enjoy every second.