Bridal portraits are very much a Southern wedding tradition. It is not uncommon to walk into a home and see a gorgeous bridal portrait hanging on the wall in the bride’s home or her parent’s. Growing up, I always admired seeing these in the homes of my family members and could stare at their pretty dresses and fancy hairdos for hours.
On your wedding day, your photographer will definitely take a few photos of the bride but there are still so many reasons to opt for a separate bridal session. Here’s why you should book your own!
1. Make the most of your hair and makeup trial
A hair and makeup trial is a great idea to make sure you and your stylist are on the same page for your wedding day look. And what better way to try out your complete look than to put on your wedding dress and have some bridal portraits taken!
Bridal photos are generally taken a few weeks before wedding day when your dress alterations are complete. This timeline can also be worked out with your seamstress.

2. Take photos in a second location
Love another location across town but know you won’t be able to fit a stop into your wedding day timeline? A bridal session gives you the opportunity to have a set of photos in another location.

3. Include your pet in your bridal portraits
There are a few reasons why your fur babies may not be able to attend your wedding. One of the best ways to get bridal photos (or wedding photos if you want to include your groom) with your pet is to have a separate bridal session where the day won’t be as long or chaotic for them.
Many brides who want to include a pet decide to take bridal portraits after their wedding day. I’m always happy to accommodate!

4. Practice, practice, practice
Not many people are professional models or even step in front of a camera more than once before their wedding day. Bridal photos are a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera and in your wedding dress. Your photographer will also learn what angles are best for you and how to show off your wedding day look!

Still not sure if a bridal session is right for you? Get in touch and let me know what questions you have!