Growing up in the south, I’ve always known of the tradition of the bridal portrait session. So when I became a wedding photographer, I was rather surprised that one of the most asked questions I get from brides is ‘what is a bridal session?’ The second question is then, ‘do I need one?’ Although you will take portraits on your wedding day, a bridal portrait session is an additional opportunity to snag some more photos of you in your gown. Typical wedding days only allow for about 15-20 minutes of time for bridals.

This southern wedding tradition has been around forever. And if you know me, you know I love traditions. It’s a tradition that has evolved over the years, from very formal in-studio sessions in the past to today’s more traditional outdoor bridal sessions. These photos are used on the wedding day for a variety of reasons: from huge portraits displayed at the entrance of the wedding reception to a keepsake album decorating the gift table. Today I’m sharing some of the reasons I’m a big fan of bridal sessions and why you should schedule your own. My bridal sessions last around 2 hours, and are a fun and relaxing way to take photos in your gown in different locations. They can be done indoors or outdoors, and give more time for fun detail shots, twirling portraits, and a unique perspective.

Why Should I Schedule a Bridal Portrait Session?

1. Hair & Makeup

About a month before your wedding trial runs for your hair and makeup happen. What a better opportunity to schedule your bridal portrait session but the same day? This allows you to see your overall wedding look prior to the big day and lets you decide if there’s anything you want to change. Don’t like the hairstyle you always pictured? No problem, you can change it for the wedding! Rather go full-glam with the makeup instead of a more natural look? Done! You can see all of the elements pulled together to determine any last minute changes you’d like to make.

2. Posing Practice

Like your engagement session, bridal sessions give you more time with your Nashville wedding photographer and allow you to learn and master posing before the wedding. You get to practice posing and moving in your wedding gown. Come your wedding day, you’ll be a pro and ready to rock your wedding portraits!

3. Wedding Day Weather

Weather is unpredictable. If it’s pouring rain or snow, or windy on your wedding day, you’ll be so frustrated that you didn’t get gorgeous outdoor portraits. The bridal session gives you the chance to avoid this and ensures you get those sunshine, perfect golden hour wedding portraits of your dreams. While we can’t control the weather, we can gain an extra opportunity to create magical photos before the big day.

4. Stress Free Photos

It’s no secret that with your wedding day, there will come some stress. Wedding days can be rushed, and rarely are on schedule. Having a day to take photos on your own time, without the added stress and questions from other vendors will be something you’re thankful for later on. Wedding days fly by. They become a blur, and before you know it, you’re down to ten minutes for bridal portraits. Give yourself the gift on an hour or two extra in that gorgeous gown of yours! I promise, you won’t regret it.

Ready to schedule your bridal session? Click here & let’s chat!

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