As a photographer, there's something truly magical about capturing the essence of a bride before her big day. Bridal sessions, often overlooked but immensely valuable, offer many benefits both for the photographer and the bride-to-be.


Q | Why should I CONSIDER a bridal session?

1 | First and foremost, bridal sessions provide an opportunity to establish a rapport with the bride. Building a relationship based on trust and understanding is crucial for capturing authentic and intimate moments on the wedding day. Bridal sessions allow me to get to know the bride's personality, her style preferences, and any insecurities she might have about being in front of the camera. This understanding lays the foundation for a smoother and more enjoyable experience on the wedding day.


2 | Bridal sessions serve as a dress rehearsal for the bride. It's a chance for her to see how her hair, makeup, and dress will look in professional photographs. Often, brides spend months, if not years, planning every detail of their wedding ensemble. A bridal session ensures that all their efforts are beautifully documented, and any adjustments can be made before the actual wedding day.


3 | From a creative standpoint, bridal sessions offer unparalleled flexibility and freedom. Unlike the hustle and bustle of the wedding day, where time is often limited, bridal sessions allow for a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. This extra time enables me to experiment with different lighting techniques, compositions, and locations, resulting in a diverse and captivating portfolio of images.


4 | Moreover, bridal sessions provide an opportunity to showcase the bride's individuality and uniqueness. Away from the distractions of the wedding day, we can focus solely on capturing her essence in stunning detail. Whether it's a serene outdoor portrait or a dramatic silhouette against a city skyline, bridal sessions allow for creative exploration and expression.


5 | Finally, bridal sessions serve as a source of comfort and reassurance for the bride. Weddings can be overwhelming, with emotions running high and schedules packed to the brim. Having already experienced a dedicated photo session before the wedding day, the bride can approach her big day with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that she's in capable hands.

Photographer - @laurenmakenna.photography | Planning & Design - @weddigsbyep | Venue - @thevenueatoakplace | Floral Design - @willowandpinefloraldesign | Bridal - @birchonmain | Accessories - @birchonmain | Videography - @nextstage_media | Furniture - @prophousebirmingham | Hair - @bystudio210 | Makeup - @nancyfinneganmua

Photographer - laurenmakenna.photography | Planning & Design Concept - @weddigsbyep | Venue - @thevenueatoakplace | Bridal - @birchonmain | Accessories - @birchonmain | Videography - @nextstage_media | Hair - @bystudio210 | Makeup - @nancyfinneganmua

Photography - @laurenmakenna.photography | Venue - The Weeden House | Videography - @chandlersmithfilms | Dress - @birchonmain | Coordinator/Decor - @eventsmadereal | Florals - @everything.esther | Makeup - @muaheathermichele | Hair - Katarina Haupt

In conclusion, bridal sessions are not just about capturing beautiful photographs; they're about building relationships, alleviating stress, and celebrating the uniqueness of each bride. As a photographer, I cherish the opportunity to be a part of this special journey, and I'm continually inspired by the beauty and grace of the brides I photograph.