Here are a few bridal photo ideas as you plan for your wedding day. Anytime in Houston is always a good time to start thinking about getting with your wedding photographer and getting your Bridal photos done. As you prepare for your photo shoot, here are a few bridal photo ideas to remember:
Bridal photo ideas for Bridal Poses
Your photographer may have some bridal photo ideas about bridal poses or positions, but this is your bridal photo shoot. It’s best if it shows ‘the real you”. Other good bridal photo ideas are to check out some of the Bridal or Wedding magazines for ideas on poses and go with what you like. You don’t want a pose that doesn’t flatter you or one that when people see it, they don’t recognize you.
Above all, be yourself and allow your personality to show in the photos. If you are the conservative type, then some of the “America’s Next Top Model” type poses may not work. But, if you are the carefree type, traditional poses might be too boring. It’s always best to get with your wedding photographer beforehand. Then you can discuss what you are looking for in the final portrait.
Best Locations in Houston for Bridal photos
Houston and the surrounding Metro area offer some great locations for shooting Bridal photos. Hermann Park, Mecom Fountain, and Rice University are good places (Rice University charges a fee for photographers to shoot there so be aware of that when booking). The Downtown Theatre District is very popular especially near Wortham Theater. Historic Richmond Rosenberg, Helen’s Garden in League City, and Oyster Creek Park in Sugar Land work as well.
These are just a few places that come to mind that are popular spots for shooting. Some brides are even allowed to use the location where their wedding or reception will be held. Those can be some very scenic locations as well.
The Bridal photo shoot should also be personal so think about a place that may have meaning for you. A neighborhood park or clubhouse, your college campus, etc. – any place that holds a special meaning to you. Also, while you are preparing for your Bridal photo shoot, be prepared for a “Plan B”. Sometimes, especially in Houston and the Gulf Coast, weather can change quickly. It can be sunny in the morning and rainy by the afternoon. During the winter months, it can be warm one day and cold by the afternoon.
If you are planning on an outdoor bridal session, see if the photographer has an indoor location for use as a backup. Some Hotels (some of the more popular hotels charge a fee so factor that into the cost of the photo shoot if needed), Model Homes (always ask permission and know that you might have to take photos around people who are looking to buy a home), even the venue where your reception will be held.
Bridal Photo Hair and makeup
Another on the list of good bridal photo ideas is to “practice” with your hair stylist and make up artist. That way, you get an idea of your wedding day look. When it comes to makeup, sometimes, less is more. If you are not a heavy makeup wearer, then it shouldn’t show in the Bridal photo shoot. Why? Because it won’t look natural.
When is the best time for a bridal photo shoot?
The best time to do your bridal photo shoot is usually early morning or late afternoon for at least two reasons: lighting and temperature. During the early morning, the sunlight is not as harsh and gives a more pleasing look to your skin over hard, midday light. Late afternoon also gives a warmer “glow” to the skin and is not as hard. Both times are also good because it is not as hot and you won’t “glisten” (see sweat) as much and will be more comfortable during the shoot. It’s also a good idea to have some bottled water or maybe eat light before the shoot.
Depending on the wedding photographer, most bridal photo shoots last at least an hour and some last three to four hours depending on the number of locations and the style of the photographer. Another issue with time is how much time before the wedding the Bridal session should be done. The photo shoot should be done at least 45-60 days before the wedding at the latest, but there are times when a photo shoot can be done two to three weeks before the wedding. Have at least two or three dates in mind for your bridal photo shoot, just in case something happens (weather, emergency, etc.).
Who can I bring along on my photo shoot?
One of my favorite bridal photo ideas I give some brides is to bring a friend or two or family member along to the photo shoot. This sometimes allows the bride to be more relaxed as well as making the shoot more fun. They can assist the bride with her dress, help retouch her hair or makeup, give her water as needed, etc. some photographers have their own assistants for this type of work, so check with your photographer first to make sure.
How long does it take to get my photos back?
Getting your images back from your photographer usually takes a few weeks. The photographer will contact you to allow you to view the proofs so you can make your choice of print. For example, I store my images online and offer my brides a private, password protected gallery so they can view their images and make their choices. Above all, have a good time, this is one of those once in a lifetime events and you want it to be something you can look back on as something you enjoyed.
You can go here to see more bridal photo ideas. If you have more questions about your bridal photos, or need more bridal photo ideas, send me a message or email me. When you are ready to book, I would be honored to serve you!