session details, tips, and answers
bridal session
$600
ADD ON:
1-hour bridal session
digital photo gallery
photo print release
Having bridal portraits taken before your wedding is not necessary, but over the years, I've learned that it does relieve some stress and time on your wedding day. With a bridal session, you'll have the opportunity to ensure that you love your hair and makeup, are satisfied with the style of your bouquet, get more comfortable with your wedding venue, and finalize your "bridal look." With this 1-hour session, we will capture you and your wardrobe and accessory details, giving us more time on your wedding day to focus on the other important details of your big day.
the experience
01.
I suggest your bridal portraits be taken at your venue so your photos feel like they were taken on your wedding day. In my experience, most venues will give you access to the space on a weekday when there are not events scheduled.
The best time to take bridal portraits is 6-8 weeks before your wedding. With this timeline, I can get photos back to you for wedding day use and allows ample time to make any hair, makeup, or accessory changes, if needed.
where and when?
the details
02.
CONFIRM SESSION TIME & location
CONFIRM SESSION payment
order bridal portrait bouquet
book hair and makeup trial
ring(s) + other accessories
wedding dress + shoes + viel
prepare for your session by fulfilling each of these items:
session checklist
03.
Bridal sessions are typically focused on just the bride, but if you’d love to include your fiancé for a few portraits, we can certainly do so! Some brides also bring their mother, sister, or best friend for support and behind-the-scenes moments.
06. Can I include my fiancé or a family member in my bridal session?
Yes! A bridal session gives you extra time for detailed portraits without the wedding-day rush. Even if you’re doing a first look, your bridal session allows for more creativity, different locations, and a relaxed experience.
05. Can I have a bridal session if I’m doing a first look on my wedding day?
Absolutely! A bridal session is a chance to savor and celebrate your dress before the big day. Seeing how you look in your gown beforehand often makes you feel even more confident and excited for your wedding day.
04. Will my dress still feel special if I take bridal portraits before the wedding?
I recommend bringing two pairs of shoes: your wedding heels for the portraits and a pair of comfortable flats or sandals for walking between locations. This keeps your feet happy and prevents unnecessary wear on your wedding shoes.
03. Should I wear my wedding shoes for the entire session?
I take great care in posing and selecting locations that minimize dirt on your dress, but some light dusting on the hem is normal. If you’re concerned, I suggest bringing a white sheet or towel to stand on for certain poses. Most wedding dresses are professionally cleaned before the big day, so a quick refresh can take care of any minor marks.
02. What if my wedding dress gets dirty during the session?
Yes! A bouquet adds an elegant touch to your portraits and helps complete your bridal look. I recommend coordinating with your florist to create a smaller version of your wedding bouquet or using a similar color scheme.
01. Should I bring a bridal bouquet?
Have a question? I've got an answer! And if you don't see your question here, please reach out via email: alexis@alexisralston.com.
FAQs
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