The most important pictures during bridal preparation

- Bridal Preparation: it’s not all about the bride, family’s important too! –

When I’m discussing wedding photography with couples, brides are often hesitant about coverage of their preparation.

“Oh no, I don’t need that?!” they gasp.

“No one needs to see those pictures.” They cringe.

“I’m not really into that!” They pointedly remark.

This is perhaps understandable: being the centre of attention is not exactly a comfortable feeling for most of us; even more so with 101 things to think about.

What I tentatively suggest is that bridal preparation is a bit of a misnomer that comes with a lot of baggage and oftentimes cliche. For me, and at the risk of stating an oxymoron, bridal preparation is actually (or could be) more about pictures of a bride’s (or groom’s) nearest and dearest.

This is a time full of emotion and bubbling anticipation. I am often struck by family dynamics and the support given by friends. All of this is great to photograph within the wider context of a bride preparing herself (or a groom of course) for their wedding.

Bridal preparation then is a story within a story. People with a close bond played out before the high excitement and scrutiny of the wedding day.

So, a bride may be forgiven for not being super excited about shots of lipstick fine tuning or detail shots of shoes; but the opportunity to capture loved ones at such a time is surely not to be missed?!
R.