WEDDING CHAT WITH SANDE - The Bridal Portrait

I had a lovely bride in my studio asked me "Have you ever had a bride not do a bridal portrait photo shoot?" She was on the fence whether to invest in one or not. Yes, I have had a couple of brides not do it. I think that is a totally personal decision. Naturally I am a picture person so I want a portrait if one of my grandkids is eating a pickle. So maybe I'm not the best person to help you make this decision!

I personally think there are some pros to getting it done. First of all - it can serve as a trial run for your hair and makeup. Secondly, its a trial run with your dress. Is it comfortable? Can you sit in it? At your reception, you will have a beautiful portrait to show your guests. And its fun. Whether it's you've brought your mom or your best friend or it's just be and my assistant Vicki. We have a blast.

I work hard to try to capture that perfect picture. Vicki and I both work hard to make sure our bride is comfortable, feeling beautiful, feeling pampered and having fun!

Should you decide you do want portraits, here are a few tips:

GLAM IT UP:

This is a once in a lifetime photo shoot, so hair, makeup and mani-pedi's are important. If you can do it yourself, great! But if you need help - consult with an expert. I work with some wonderful make up artists and hair stylists and can refer you to one that fits you. Schedule your glam appointment early in the day. You don't want to add the stress of being rushed to your day.

BE ON TIME

Lighting is crucial for an outdoor photo shoot. Pretty, soft lighting is best. Most likely, your photographer will schedule you very early in the morning to get that soft sunrise light or late in the afternoon, known as the golden hour, to get that gorgeous sunset light. That pretty light doesn't last long so make every effort to be on time.

CHOOSE A LOCATION THAT FITS YOUR VISION

Is you vision timeless and elegant? Or cowboy boots and a barn? Or maybe you want an artistic urban shot? Do some research to see what type of photos reflect your personal style. When my daughter was getting married, our photographer was showing her his favorite place to take bridals. It was very rustic. Large porches with rocking chairs. She sat very quietly as he showed her this place. She finally spoke up and said - this is not my style at all. Thank goodness she spoke up! Whatever location your choose is totally personal!

DON'T FORGET YOUR ACCESSORIES:

Here is a checklist to help you remember all those details:

_____ Dress _______ Shoes ______ Lip Gloss/Color

_____ Bouquet _______ Jewelry ______ Touch up Makeup

_____ Veil _______ Undergarments

BE FULLY PRESENT

This day is part of your wedding journey. Leave all your stress, worries and party planning behind for this day. Take a deep breath. Just enjoy and soak in every moment of it. When you look back at your portraits, you will have wonderful memories of one of the best chapters of your life story!!