RALEIGH BRIDAL PORTRAITS
Bridal portraits are a popular southern wedding tradition, but it is not just for southerners. It no longer has to be shot in a studio (that is an option), but we can go to any location. Creativity is the name of the game when it comes to modern bridal portraits. We can shoot at your wedding venue; we can shoot at the coast, the mountains, or whatever you want. While not a “must have” for all brides, bridal portraits can play an important part in being relaxed on your wedding day.
Raleigh Bridal Portraits: Locations, Tips, and Sessions
I love shooting Raleigh bridal portraits because it’s an opportunity to let my creative juices flow. The goal is to capture the traditional, for mom, and the modern, for the bride. Once you look through my bridal portfolio, you will notice two things. One, I don’t always shoot at the same location. Two, I have a love for veils flying in the air, even if it’s in the middle of an indoor venue. After more than ten years of shooting and posing brides, I have learned what shoulder position, head tilt, lens choice, or stance is going to be most flattering. Here are some tips that you can do before and on the day of your bridal session.
The Right Person & Emotion.
One component brides don’t think of when it comes to their portrait session is, bringing the right person. Having someone at the portrait session that will make you comfortable and that can provide a laugh or a smile. For most brides posing for their portraits are not a stress-free affair, and that is entirely normal. Stepping into the wedding dress for the first time with jewelry, hair, makeup, and veil in place can be an emotional event. It is best to have loved ones close to you to share in those moments. I recommend to brides that they bring their mom or a friend to the portrait session. Some brides bring their mother and the maid of honor. Others bring their entire entourage of twelve people, whatever you need to make you relaxed and confident.
Choosing your bridal portrait location in Raleigh
Most brides think that location is the key to great bridal portraits. While a great backdrop is part of the equation, it isn’t the primary component. The pose, the lighting, and emotion are the components that make a beautiful portrait. While not the number one part of a bridal session, proper consideration of the portrait location should not be taken lightly. You don’t want to shoot in the country if you are a city girl and vice versa. Some favorite outdoor spots are JC Raulston Arboretum, Raleigh Rose Garden, The North Carolina Museum of Art, etc.
Some of my brides opt to shoot their bridal portraits, not at their wedding venue. That’s when the fun begins, finding a location that will have a connection to the bride or match her personality. In the Raleigh area, the options are endless. The whole state of North Carolina makes for a great backdrop. We have historical homes, the open country, sandy beaches, rocky beaches, and the mountains. There is a location out there for you!
