33 Tips For Taking Beautiful Bridal Portraits

More brides are scheduling photo sessions apart from the wedding day to ensure lovely portraits — this tradition originated in the South. "A bridal session gives the gift of time. I shoot for a minimum of two hours whereas, at a wedding, I'm fortunate to get 20 minutes with the couple and maybe five minutes for bridal photos. Each image can be carefully crafted, and poses are tweaked to perfection," says Priscilla Thomas from Priscilla Thomas Photography.

Scheduling a post-wedding session is also a great option for couples who are unable to get the picturesque photos they envisioned for their big day due to inclement weather.