If you’re anything like Melanie and I, you feel a bit awkward in front of the camera and are critical of yourself about every single fault. This makes it quite difficult to relax and be comfortable in front of the camera, and can even result in a restless night before your big bridal glamour session.
Take a breath. Hold it. Let it go.
Relaxing is the key to really enjoying your photo session with the photographer. To help you make the most of the session, here are a few quick tips that will help for the day:
1) Get to know your photographer first
It goes without saying that you are more comfortable around people you know. Camera or not, you’re in a much more relaxed state and have the ability to really be yourself. Spend some time in person (or on the phone if the photographer isn’t local) getting to know the photographer’s personality and be sure to share your own. At the end of the day, the photographer is capturing YOU, albeit a glammed up version of you.
Photos Below Courtesy Jose Villa
2) Make an inspiration board
Pinterest makes this super easy! Collect images of the style you want for the shoot. Lighting, scenery, postures, mood. It all comes into play in the shoot and can help you mentally prepare yourself for the session itself. If you visualize how you want to look and where, you’ll be much more relaxed and confident in front of the camera. Plus, there won’t be any major surprises! On that note, you may want to bring accessories or props to help create the perfect look and feel.
3) Have your makeup and hair done professionally
Think of this as a dress rehearsal for your BIG day! This is a tremendous opportunity to try that makeup and hair style you’ve been dreaming about since you got engaged. You’ll have a chance to see it in images and really decide if it’s the perfect look for your wedding. Be sure to spend time prior to the session looking at options. Pinterest has no shortage of ideas for you. The biggest problem will be deciding on just one!
Photos Below Courtesy Elizabeth Messina
4) Bring someone with you whose input you trust
This one is important. You’re going to have a lot of people that want to come to the photo shoot – mothers, mother-in-laws, bridesmaids, etc. It’s okay to tell them “no” if you think they are going to make the session uncomfortable. It’s a good idea, though, to bring someone along who knows your vision and whose input you trust. They can watch and make suggestions, but they will also help you to relax and feel much more “you” in front of the camera.
Photo Below Courtesy Elizabeth Messina
Photos Below Courtesy Jose Villa
5) Remember to have fun!
If you are stressing while preparing for the session, step back and take a break from it for a while. This is supposed to be fun. This is the the dress rehearsal for the biggest day of your life to date – the moment you walk down that aisle and see your groom get weak in the knees as you take his breath away. This is your moment to shine – enjoy it!
The tips and tricks aren’t over!
Photographer and super stylish gal Misha Hettie has plenty more ideas to prepare yourself for your next glamour or boudoir session.
