Pre Bridal Session Prep

Items to Avoid:

  1. Glitter makeup

  2. Chewing gum

  3. Tanning/Sun 4-7 days before your portrait session.

  4. Refrain from getting spray tans as they don't photograph well and can result in undesirable orange hues.

  5. Tan lines that will be evident. (Shoulders, sunglass lines, legs, etc.)

  6. Dry skin and chapped lips

  7. Please be in your wedding dress ready to go at the designated start time

  8. Steer clear of vivid red lipstick as cameras struggle to capture the intensity of red tones. If wearing lipstick keep it subtle.

General Suggestions:

  1. Having a bouquet at your session is a small detail that makes a big difference. I highly recommend having one. Arrange with a florist in advance.

  2. Manicured nails, shaped brows.

  3. Trimmed ear and nose hair for men. Men, also pay attention to your eyebrows and if they need to be trimmed.

  4. Spray down all fly away hairs prior to your portrait session.

  5. Bring water to your portrait session (April - October).

  6. Bring eye drops and moisturizer. Apply before the session.

  7. If you intend to wear your veil in just half of your photos, it's advisable to wear the veil during the latter half of the portrait session. This is because the static from the veil could disrupt your hairstyle if worn earlier.

  8. Teeth clean and flossed. If you want to you can whiten/bleach your teeth a couple weeks prior.

  9. If you are wearing high heels with your wedding dress bring a pair of flats for walking around in.

  10. If it is going to be chilly outside bring a coat and or blanket that you can easily slip off and on. Bring hairspray.

  11. If you are sick the day of the session I suggest re-scheduling.

  12. Factor traffic and rush hour into your travel. Check your gas tank in advance before your commute.

  13. Remember to wear your wedding ring.

  14. To ensure full photography coverage and a smooth session, I kindly request that if you have a videographer filming before the wedding day, consider scheduling it on a separate day from our photography session. Alternatively, arrange for the videography to take place just before or after our portrait session. This way, I can maximize your photography time without any interruptions. If you have any inquiries or need further clarification, please feel free to contact me. Of course, there may be exceptions, and I'm happy to discuss any specific arrangements with you.

  15. For portrait sessions during cold winter months please bring the following: Coat, large blanket, gloves, snow-boots.

  16. Eye glasses may be worn. Non-reflective lenses are a big help and highly recommended.

  17. Check your dress a couple weeks before the session to make sure everything fits properly and that nothing is missing. Double check buttons and small details on the dress.

  18. Be mindful that thicker and longer eyelash extensions might affect the visibility of your eyes which are the most vital element in a portrait. This can make it challenging to showcase the catch lights in your eyes, which are crucial for creating a captivating portrait. If you tend to squint when you smile, it’s recommended to opt for shorter and lighter eyelash extensions to ensure your eyes, the centerpiece of a portrait, remain unobscured.

  19. If the mother of the bride needs a specific image of the bride be sure to notify.

  20. I suggest having someone there to help you with your dress during the portrait session. Your mother, mother in-law, sister, maid of honor etc. Avoid having too many people attend.

  21. Bouquet Tip: For an ideal bridal bouquet, I recommend a well-rounded shape without twigs or excessive dangling. Items sticking out from the sides can cast shadows on your dress, and they might look distracting when covering your arm, for instance. This suggestion allows for a clean and elegant look, though there may be exceptions.

  22. You should plan for where you'll be getting ready in your wedding dress, whether it's conveniently located near your chosen photo spot or at your residence. Kindly ensure that you arrive dressed in your wedding attire, fully prepared for the portrait session.

    Accessory Ideas

    Veil, birdcage, necklace, earrings, bouquet

    Other Information

    Avoid a drastic hair change as you may not be happy with the results. If you plan to hire a hair and makeup stylist, I strongly recommend scheduling a trial run beforehand. Additionally, if you're hiring a stylist, make sure to get your hair done well in advance to avoid any delays. For those with colored hair, be sure to touch up the roots before the photoshoot to achieve the best results.

    Please be on time. Daylight waits for no one!

© Brandon Burk Photography

Wedding Instagram: @UtahWeddingPhotographer