The first thing that I photograph at every wedding is the bridal details. Every bride has spent countless hours choosing her gown, earrings, invitation suite, etc., so it’s so incredibly important that these are beautifully photographed! Not only will they be included in their gallery, but the detail images will be used throughout their wedding album as well. Because of that, it’s crucial that they are photographed consistently.

As the photographer, there’s only so much you can do with what you’re given, right? Well that’s the key! One thing that you can do to set yourself up for success is educate your bride on what she should have ready for you the morning of the wedding. I send my brides a list of possible bridal details, and will also ask them to include any items that may go along with the theme of their day. If it’s a rustic theme, then maybe they could include some lace or burlap. If it’s a nautical theme, then maybe including any small anchor decor or other items that match the theme. I’ve also found that florals can make or break (if they are missing!) the detail images. I always recommend that the brides flowers arrive early in the day, and also ask them to have their florist bring any extra stems they didn’t use. This leads to my next point!

The key to having consistent detail images is to have something that’s consistently in all of the shots to tie it all together (see what I did there?). For some brides, this may be a wooden background, for other’s it could be their veil. It could also be the flowers, the bridesmaid dress, ribbon, etc! Once you find a detail that fits with the theme of the wedding, then carry it through ALL of the detail pictures. 

If you’re looking for more tips like this, check out the How To Photograph Bridal Details mini-guide in the Refined Second Shooter Online Shop!