Pre Bride/Groom Session Prep
Avoid the following items and considerations for your bride/groom portrait session:
Glitter makeup: Steer clear of glitter makeup, as it can create unwanted reflections and distract from your natural beauty.
Chewing gum: Refrain from chewing gum during the session.
Bulky items in pockets: Avoid carrying bulky items like wallets, cell phones, or keys in your pockets to ensure a clean and streamlined appearance.
Tanning/Sun exposure: Avoid tanning or sun exposure 3-5 days before the portrait session.
Avoid getting a spray tan as they often yield unsatisfactory results in photographs and may lead to skin appearing unnaturally orange.
Tan lines: Be mindful of tan lines on areas like shoulders, sunglass lines, and legs, as they may be visible in the photographs.
Dry skin and chapped lips: Moisturize your skin and lips beforehand to ensure a smooth and radiant complexion.
Limited number of attendees: Avoid bringing too many people along for the portrait session, as it can hinder the relaxed atmosphere for the bride and groom. It is typical for the mother of the bride to be present at the bridal session. If you have a friend, sister or family member with an exuberant and fun personality, they are the perfect companion to keep your spirits high during your portrait session.
Steer clear of vivid red lipstick as cameras struggle to capture the intensity of red tones. If wearing lipstick keep it subtle.
Here are some general suggestions for your bride/groom portrait session:
Bring a bouquet: Having a bouquet can make a significant difference in your photos. I highly recommend it. It will give your hands something to do in photos.
Bouquet style suggestion: A shaped and well-rounded bouquet is preferred to avoid distractions in the photos. Avoid branches, stems etc poking out as they can cast shadows onto yourself/dress (it can also look funny protruding out toward your neck etc). Mention to the florist well rounded at the top without excess poking out to cause unwanted shadows. That is my suggestion.
Groom's boutonniere: Don't forget to accessorize the groom with a boutonniere for a nice touch. Optional.
Women, spray down all fly away hairs prior to your portrait session.
Men, ensure that the stitching on your new suit in undone. When you buy a new suit, there is white stitching on the jacket shoulders, the vents are sewn closed and the pockets are stitched shut. These all need to be removed to prepare the jacket to be worn.
Punctuality: Be ready in your wedding dress and suit at the designated start time since daylight waits for no one. Being on time ensures the best lighting conditions and optimal results for your portraits. It is far better to arrive too early to your session than being late. You will be more at ease and photograph your best if you arrive early and are prepared ahead of time.
Personal grooming: Ensure manicured nails and shaped brows for women, and trimmed ear and nose hair for men.
Clean and well-prepared: Wear clean shoes, new socks and/or stockings free of runs.
Bring water, eye drops, moisturizer, and a coat or blanket if needed.
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.
Men's grooming: Cut hair 2-5 days before the session and make sure the neckline is neatly shaped and clean.
Dental care: Teeth clean and flossed. If you want to you can whiten/bleach your teeth a couple weeks prior.
Comfortable footwear: If wearing high heels with your wedding dress, bring a pair of flats for walking around.
If one of you is sick before the session I suggest re-scheduling.
Plan your travel: Factor in traffic and rush hour during your commute.
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.
Check attire details: Make sure buttons and small dress details are secure and that the groom's suit coat pockets are unstitched.
Consider eyewear: Eye glasses may be worn, but non-reflective lenses are recommended. You may also considering wearing frames without lenses in them.
Check your dress: Ensure everything fits properly and double-check buttons and small details on the dress.
When you're tying your necktie, remember the guideline that the lower end of the tie should just lightly reach the top of your belt. Avoid tying your necktie too long! Also, don't overlook the importance of wearing a belt with your suit. Opt for a necktie in solid, earth tones, and refrain from choosing one with loud patterns. Select an earth tone that complements your hair/eye color, complexion and the suit. Avoid wearing pastel neckties. My personal favorite brand for neckties is JZ Richards which can be found at Nordstrom and Utah Woolen Mills.
Wearing suspenders under your suit jacket can be a stylish and functional choice, and using button suspenders can be a great way to achieve a polished look. Button suspenders are often preferred over clip-on suspenders. They will look much better. Button suspenders are typically more discreet than clip-on suspenders. They don't have the visible clips or clasps that can sometimes be seen when wearing a suit jacket. This creates a cleaner and more streamlined look. To wear button suspenders under your suit jacket, you'll need to have buttons sewn into the waistband of your pants. These buttons should be placed in such a way that they align with the attachment points on the suspenders. The suspenders will then fasten to these buttons for a secure fit. If wearing suspenders you will not want to wear a belt.
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.
Bouquet advice: I personally recommend a bouquet that is well-rounded and neatly shaped, without twigs or excessive elements hanging from the sides. Items protruding from the bouquet can cast shadows on your dress and might appear odd poking out or covering your arms, potentially being distracting. Please consider this as a suggestion, with exceptions possible.
Remember that these are general suggestions, and exceptions can be discussed with your photographer as needed.
Wedding Accessory Ideas
Wedding accessories can add a touch of charm, elegance, and personalization to your special day. Here are some inspiring wedding accessory ideas:
Bridal Veil: A classic and timeless accessory that adds a touch of romance to your bridal look. Choose from various lengths and styles to complement your gown.
Hair Accessories: Decorate your hairstyle with headbands, hairpins, tiaras, or delicate floral crowns to enhance your overall look.
Bridal Jewelry: From sparkling earrings to a stunning necklace or bracelet, carefully chosen jewelry can elevate your bridal attire and add a touch of sophistication.
Bridal Shoes: Don't forget about your shoes! Consider stylish heels, comfortable flats, or even personalized wedding sneakers for a fun twist.
Wedding Bouquet: Your bouquet is not only a beautiful accessory but also an essential part of your wedding ensemble. Opt for a bouquet that complements your dress and suits your wedding theme.
Bridal Clutch: A small clutch or purse allows you to keep your essentials handy while adding a stylish accent to your outfit.
Garter: A traditional accessory that adds charm to your wedding attire.
Bridal Cape or Shawl: Perfect for winter weddings, a chic cape or shawl provides warmth and adds an extra layer of elegance.
Wedding Belt or Sash: A decorative belt or sash can accentuate your waist and add a pop of color or sparkle to your dress.
Bridal Gloves: For a touch of vintage flair, consider delicate gloves that complement your gown and style.
Statement Umbrella: If you're having an outdoor wedding, consider a stylish and decorative umbrella to shield you from the sun or rain.
Wedding Fan: For warm-weather weddings, an elegant hand fan can be a practical and fashionable accessory.
Musical instrument such as a guitar.
Remember, the best wedding accessories are those that reflect your personal style and complement your overall wedding theme. They are the little details that can make a big difference and add a unique touch to your memorable day.
Other Information
Avoid a drastic hair change as you may not be happy with the results. If hiring a hair and or makeup stylist I highly suggest doing a trial run beforehand. If hiring a stylist make sure your hair is done well in advance to ensure you are on time. If you color your hair be sure that the roots of your hair and touched up prior to photos.
Please be on time. Daylight waits for no one!
© Brandon Burk Photography
