Your Complete Bridal Session Prep Guide from Kirsten Prater Photography
One of the most exciting parts of wedding planning is your bridal session! Bridal portraits are such a special way to celebrate this season of life while giving you a chance to wear your wedding dress before the big day. As a Kirsten Prater Photography bride, I want your bridal session to feel fun, stress-free, and absolutely beautiful.
One of the biggest questions brides ask is: “What do I need to bring to my bridal session?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a full checklist to help you feel prepared and confident for your bridal portraits.
Your Wedding Dress
This may seem obvious, but make sure your dress is:
- Steamed or professionally pressed
- Hanging properly for transport
- Fully altered before your session if possible
Your bridal session is the perfect opportunity to make sure you feel comfortable moving in your dress before wedding day. Plus, seeing how your dress photographs can help you feel even more confident walking down the aisle.
Pro tip: Bring a white sheet or garment bag to place under your dress during transportation to help keep it clean.
Your Wedding Shoes
Bring the exact shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day! This helps your dress fall correctly and keeps your photos authentic to your full bridal look.
If your heels are uncomfortable, also bring:
- Flats
- Sandals
- Crocs
- House shoes
You’ll thank yourself later when we’re walking between photo spots!
Your Bridal Bouquet
Flowers make SUCH a difference in bridal portraits. Your bouquet ties your entire look together and adds so much elegance to your photos.
Some brides:
- Use their real wedding bouquet if timing allows
- Order a smaller replica bouquet
- Use faux florals
Your Jewelry & Accessories
Bring all the little details that complete your wedding day look:
- Earrings
- Necklace
- Bracelet
- Veil
- Hair accessories
- Rings
- Perfume
- Something borrowed or sentimental items
These details help personalize your bridal portraits and make them feel uniquely you.
Your Veil
PLEASE bring your veil if you have one! Veils create some of the dreamiest and most romantic bridal portraits. Whether it’s long, short, pearl-covered, or classic cathedral style, it adds beautiful movement and elegance to your gallery.
Some of my favorite bridal portraits happen with the veil blowing in the West Texas wind!
Touch-Up Makeup Items
Even if you have professional hair and makeup done, bring a small touch-up bag with:
- Lipstick or gloss
- Powder
- Blotting sheets
- Bobby pins
- Hair spray
- Makeup sponge
West Texas weather can be unpredictable, and quick touch-ups help keep you looking fresh throughout your session.
A Trusted Friend or Family Member
Having someone with you can be SO helpful. They can:
- Fluff your dress
- Hold your bouquet
- Carry your things
- Fix your veil
- Hype you up the entire session
Moms, sisters, bridesmaids, or best friends make amazing bridal session assistants!
Your Confidence
This is YOUR moment. Bridal sessions are about celebrating you and this exciting season before you marry the love of your life. Don’t stress about posing or knowing what to do — that’s my job!
At Kirsten Prater Photography, I guide my brides every step of the way so your photos feel natural, joyful, and timeless.
Why Bridal Sessions Matter
Bridal sessions are more than just pretty photos. They help:
- You feel comfortable in your dress before wedding day
- Test your hair and makeup look
- Practice posing
- Calm wedding day nerves
- Create gorgeous portraits without a wedding day timeline rush
Plus, many of my brides use their bridal portraits for:
- Reception prints
- Guest book tables
- Wedding décor
- Parent gifts
Looking for a Lubbock Wedding Photographer?
If you’re searching for a bright, colorful, and joyful Lubbock Wedding Photographer, I would love to chat with you! From engagement sessions to bridal portraits and your full wedding day, I’m here to help make your experience stress-free and unforgettable.
You can learn more about my wedding photography experience at:
Kirsten Prater Photography
Follow along on Instagram for wedding inspiration, bridal session ideas, and real West Texas weddings:
@kirsten_prater_photography
