• Helpful Hints

We have shot 32 weddings this year. It has been one of the most fun and exhilarating years of my life. Sharing the wedding experience with other women is something I truly enjoy. I have been married twice and I have had two completely different experiences. My first marriage was a large wedding, princess designer gown, tiara and the whole works. My second and FINAL marriage included  35 of my closest in a destination wedding to NYC and a small, yet fancy reception at Tavern on the Green. I will not claim that one is better than the other, but I will say I felt completely different about myself at these weddings. I was only 21 when I married the first time. I was a ball of stress and wanted everything to go perfect. I was so focused on the event and who was where and what was going on that I lost myself in the details. The second time I was married I was a little older at the age of 29. I took what I had learned and really decided to soak in all the memories. I truly stayed calm and just realized I was in a magical time in my life that would soon fade into photographs. I was very aware of my surroundings and very grateful for all of the timeless experiences flooding me. After thinking about my experiences and gathering ideas on what I have learned from shooting other brides—these are some of the things I think all brides should know in order to help themselves look their best and really enjoy the photos that I give to them.

TOP 5 THINGS A BRIDE SHOULD DO TO HELP HER LOOK HER BEST:

1. BE CONFIDENT– It’s not about how much weight you lost before the big day. It’s definitely not about if your skin or hair look perfect. It IS about how special you are on this day. You were chosen by another amazing person to spend the rest of your lives together. You ARE gorgeous. You ARE worthy. You DESERVE the best. Being a confident woman really shows through photos. Confident women are easy to pose and are more natural in front of the camera. It’s your one day to “Work it Girl”.
2. BE AWARE– After shooting many brides I have had a huge photography success with women who are aware the camera is there. Yes, you should be going about your wedding day with your closest friends and family and living in the moment. It is also important to remember you are being photographed constantly. Make eyes with the camera, flirt with the camera. I have seen a huge difference in the outcome of the photos from women who are constantly aware of where I am and playing up the camera!
3. DON’T TALK TOO MUCH– Talking through an amazing moment such as putting your wedding gown on can create awkward faces as one of the most important tasks of the day unfolds. Poise yourself and be aware that amazing photographs are being taken. Think about your posture, your face and most of all be aware of the beautiful and short moments that are happening all around you! I always tell my brides to let me do all of the yelling and organizing. I want to take the stress off of your shoulders and let you enjoy the day.
4. REMEMBER HOW YOU DREAMED IT WOULD BE– You have waited on this day your whole life. You dreamed of what you would look like, how your hair would be styled and every detail of the day. You most likely have been a huge part of the planning process over many many months. Good for you! But guess what? Those plans have already been executed and now its your time to sit back and experience it! This day is all about you and we want you to look and feel your best just like you always dreamed.
5. FOCUS– The pressure of the day sometimes gets to brides. They want to be in control of everything. What time is the cake arriving? Did the florist stop by yet? Where is my maid of honor? She’s 30 min late!! I have seen it all. Everything will work out the way it is supposed to. I always encourage my brides to remember this is their WEDDING DAY, not just a well organized event. You are about to marry the man of your dreams and that is what you should be focusing on. Let others help you and solve problems for you 🙂

We want to produce amazing images of your special day. We hope that some of this tips will help you remember how amazing you’re going to look!

 

Shalyn was super confident and VERY playful with the camera! And it really paid off!

Katie was always aware of where the light source was and how to have a “pretty face” for photos! She was quiet through the photo moments 🙂

 

Sarah is SUPER confident and let the stress go! She really plays into the role of bride and forgets the camera is even there.

Lindsey followed my camera and always knew where I was. She was not afraid to show that gorgeous face to the camera! I also love that she isn’t holding her breasts when she puts her gown on. Many women balance their dress by holding their breasts. I always encourage them to hold their dress at the waist while being laced or zipped up! Much more flattering.

Lynsey is super sexy and LOVES a camera. She really is the pro at keeping a beautiful face without a smile. That’s so hard to do! It’s all about the body language and eyes!

Angelica rocks just about every photo. She is VERY aware, super confident and really knows how to shape and move her body to compliment her photos.

 

I love my brides. They surely are the best there is 🙂

 

xx,

Leaha