How to Have the Very Best Bridal Portrait Session
by Rick Caperton
Bridal portraits are so very important to most brides. Here are some tips on getting the very best results.
Your weight. Has it gone up or down since the last gown fitting? The gown should be fitted shortly before the bridal session. At the fitting, make sure that you are able to twist at the waist without the dress bunching or riding up. Very few portraits will be taken with you posed standing straight. You will be asked to twist and turn and the fit of the dress needs to be perfect.
The week or two before the bridal session, be very careful of the sun and tan lines. Nothing can ruin a bridal portrait more quickly than tan lines, especially with todays strapless gowns. The camera sees things that don't always show up to the naked eye. Look closely at yourself with the dress on to check for tan lines or blemishes.
I also recommend that your hair and makeup be applied shortly before the session and that a friend accompany you to keep up with touch ups and to help with the dress. One fun way to do an outdoor session is to have the bridesmaids come along so we may take a few group shots. If they all dress alike it looks really GREAT! The bridal preview album will be a treasured keepsake especially if a few shots of the bridesmaids luncheon are included. This is a portrait that you will have for the rest of your life. We want it to be the very best that it can be.
