Prepping for your Bridal Shoot

This blog post is all about prepping for your bridal shoot! These Tony’s Grove Fall Bridals are special to me since these were for my sister and her new hubby. She had always wanted to do her bridals at Tony’s Grove (for good reason) so these are the results:)

Not everyone knows what their vision is like my sister though. If you’re planning your bridal shoot and feel at a loss of where to go, start with finding a photographer who reflects a style that you love, is consistent, and you feel like you can trust. You can get to establish that trust by meeting with them beforehand, doing an engagement shoot or a mini shoot, or reading what others have said! Here’s a more detailed list you can follow to prepare yourself to feel more comfortable and confident during your bridal shoot. Here are some tips to help you feel at ease:

1. Choose the right photographer: Select a photographer who makes you feel comfortable and understands your vision. Look at their portfolio to ensure their style aligns with what you want for your bridal shoot. Meet with them beforehand to discuss your ideas and get to know each other. I offer free consultation calls to see if we would be a good fit to work with each other! You can contact me here about meeting up.
2. Plan and communicate your ideas: Discuss your preferences, poses, and specific shots you want with your photographer in advance. Clear communication will help alleviate any uncertainties and ensure that you’re both on the same page.
3. Schedule a pre-shoot consultation: Arrange a consultation or engagement session with your photographer before the bridal shoot. This will give you an opportunity to get to know each other better and become more comfortable in front of the camera.
4. Practice posing and expressions: Experiment with different poses and facial expressions in front of a mirror or with a loved one. This will help you become more confident and relaxed during the shoot. You can also look for inspiration from bridal magazines, Pinterest, or the photographer’s portfolio.
5. Choose outfits that make you feel amazing: Select bridal attire that fits well, flatters your figure, and makes you feel beautiful. Wear something that reflects your personal style and makes you feel comfortable. Trying on your outfit before the shoot will give you a chance to make any necessary adjustments or alterations.
6. Consider professional hair and makeup: Having your hair and makeup professionally done can boost your confidence and make you feel extra special. Choose a style that enhances your natural features and aligns with the overall look you want to achieve for the shoot. While prepping for your bridal shoot, you can also ask your photographer for vendor recommendations for hair and makeup. They can give you suggestions for people they’ve worked with before.
7. Bring a support person: If you think having a familiar face will help you relax, consider bringing a close friend, family member, or your partner to the shoot. Their presence can provide reassurance and support throughout the process. A lot of brides will bring their mom’s with and it’s nice to have someone extra to help catch flyaway hairs or fix dress issues.
8. Relax and trust your photographer: Remember that your photographer is there to capture your beauty and create a comfortable environment for you. Trust their expertise and guidance. They will know how to pose you, suggest flattering angles, and make you feel at ease.
9. Have fun and be yourself: Embrace the moment and enjoy the experience. Laugh, smile, and let your genuine emotions shine through. The more you relax and be yourself, the more natural and authentic your photos will be!
10. Take breaks and breathe: If you start to feel overwhelmed or nervous during the shoot, take a moment to pause, take deep breaths, and refocus. Remember to enjoy the process!

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to feeling comfortable, confident, and ready to shine during your bridal shoot.