What is a bridal session?


I often get asked this question by wedding clients when they see this as an option in my packages. The simplest answer is: a bridal session is an opportunity for you and your partner to take portraits in your wedding attire either before or after your wedding. While not super common, it has become an increasingly popular option for clients in recent years.

 

A couple embraces in a romantic lift pose on a manicured lawn with pine trees and gazebos in the background.

When do bridal sessions happen?



The time and date of bridals is typically decided based on the preference of individual couples, but common options include:


A few days before the wedding

A few days/the day after the wedding

During your honeymoon

On your anniversary

Later in the year/during a different season

A person in a white off-shoulder dress poses elegantly outdoors in a series of intimate bridal portraits.
A couple playfully dips and poses together on a sunny lawn surrounded by green trees and hedges.

Why should we consider bridals?


Bridal portraits are one of the most overlooked opportunities in wedding photography, and they are honestly one of the most rewarding. Here's why every couple should consider adding them to their wedding experience.


A couple shares a romantic moment in front of a lush green hedge during their outdoor wedding celebration.
A couple poses together on the steps of a grand brick building with white columns and railings.
Couple dancing and twirling on a terracotta tile patio near a swimming pool at an elegant estate on a sunny day.

1) More pictures, more memories


Your wedding day moves fast. Between the ceremony, the cocktail hour, and dancing the night away, there's only so much time for portraits. A dedicated bridal session gives you the gift of unhurried, intentional time to create a full gallery of images that go far beyond what's possible on the wedding day itself. More variety, more locations, more you.

A romantic moment between a couple on their wedding day at an elegant outdoor venue with a white gazebo and manicured lawn.

2) Less stress, more presence


Let's be honest: wedding mornings are chaotic. Hair, makeup, family, and vendors are all competing for your attention before you even make it to the altar. Not to mention, the weather can be totally unpredictable. When you've already had a full portrait session, there's one less thing to rush through on your big day. You can be present, breathe, and actually enjoy getting married.

A couple shares a romantic embrace on a lush green lawn during an outdoor photo session at sunset.
A couple performs a dramatic dance lift pose on a lush green lawn at sunset with pine trees in the background.
A sequence of photos showing a couple dancing playfully on a green lawn at sunset with trees in the background.
A sequence of dance moves captured in a garden setting shows a person performing spins on a green lawn.
A romantic couple shares a kiss while performing a dramatic dip pose on a grassy lawn at sunset.

3) A completely different look


Your wedding day portraits capture one moment in time, but a bridal session opens the door to something more editorial. You can be photographed in different lighting, a different setting, and a different mood. Maybe soft and ethereal portraits at golden hour is something you love but missed during your reception, or maybe you want to do bold and dramatic editorials in a historic venue that was booked for your big day. It's a chance to see yourself in your bridal attire in a way that feels distinctly you, outside of the wedding day timeline.

A couple in wedding attire poses playfully by an elegant swimming pool at a brick mansion venue.
Wedding couple poses playfully on brick patio next to swimming pool at elegant brick estate venue.
A person in a white wedding dress poses elegantly on a brick patio near a pool.

4) Another chance to get it right


If you opt to do a bridal session before your wedding day, you can think of a it as a dress rehearsal. You get the chance to become comfortable in front of the camera, learn what poses feel natural, and test hair and makeup prior to the ceremony. The result? You'll feel confident and at ease when it truly counts. On the other hand, if you opt to do a bridal session after your wedding day, you can view it as your opportunity to switch up some things you ended up not loving.

Elegant curved white columns and wrought iron railings adorn the front porch of a classic brick home.
A wedding couple walks down brick steps with white railings in a sequence of four progressive photos.

5) A chance to celebrate


Your wedding is full of moments shared with others, but a bridal portrait session is a chance to celebrate intimately. It's a celebration of you and your partner stepping into this new chapter. Some couples choose to take their portraits at a unique location to explore somewhere new together, while others decide to go back to their original venue to relive their day. Whatever you choose, these images are a reminder that your love is worth celebrating

A couple in formal wedding attire poses against a lush green hedge wall at an elegant outdoor venue.
Wedding couple poses against green hedge backdrop with elegant white table settings and champagne glasses.
A romantic wedding couple embraces against a lush green hedge backdrop during their outdoor photo session.

6) It's a timeless tradition with modern appeal


Bridal portraits have deep roots in Southern wedding tradition, but they've found a place in modern weddings across the country. While traditionally for brides alone, modern day couples have found that doing bridal sessions together are extremely appealing. They're versatile, meaningful, and endlessly beautiful. Whether you're a classic romantic or a fashion-forward couple, a bridal session can be tailored entirely to your aesthetic.

Wedding invitations and pearl necklaces arranged with delicate floral accents on a rustic wooden surface.

Considering booking a bridal session?


If there is any part of you that wants to book a bridal session for you and your partner, I'd love to help you bring your vision to life. Through a custom consultation call, we will work together to plan each detail of your dream session.


Dreaming of your own coastal-inspired bridals that combine luxury with unique personal touches? Let's create a visual story that's as stunning and unforgettable as your love!


Vendor List:


Host - @loveclubcollectives, @morganaugustaimages

Venue - Abney Hall Events

Planning - The Black Tie Events

Florals - The Black Tie Events

Hair & Makeup - The Black Tie Events

Cake - @queen.city.cakes

Couple - Lori & Christian Tisdale