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19 Wedding Dress Photo Ideas To Immortalize Your Bridal Gown Forever

19 Wedding Dress Photo Ideas To Immortalize Your Bridal Gown Forever

Wedding dresses are a sentimental aspect of the wedding for every bride!

Every bride usually chooses this dress after much thought and deliberation. Unfortunately, it is often one of the most significant wedding day expenditures. So, isn’t it rather sad that you will wear this dress just once?

So, on the special occasion that is your wedding, it is only fitting that you show it off to the maximum. Also, there is a way to immortalize this dress forever, and that is through your wedding photos. Gorgeous pictures of your beautiful wedding gown, taken from all the right angles, will serve as beautiful souvenirs of your lovely dress. Discuss the options to capture your wedding dress’s full glory with your photographer. Or think up shots that will highlight your dress and share this list with your photographer.

Here are some of our ideas to inspire you to get the best possible shots of your wedding dress.

Your must-have list of wedding dress photos

The classic shot of the dress on the hanger

Give your wedding dress its moment of glory when your photographer captures its magnificence all by itself. Whether your wedding dress is an opulent ball gown or a minimalist sheath, it deserves to be shown off all by itself in your wedding album. All you need is the perfect spot to display it and a beautiful hanger to hold it upright. Choose from silk-draped hangers, fancy vintage hangers and colourful beauties that match the tone of your wedding theme for more impact. Your photographer will do the rest. More ideas here on the Junebugs Wedding blog. Hang it up against a mirror or between two windows in a clean and uncluttered location to capture every detail in its full glory.

Wedding dress with bridal accessories

If you aren’t too fond of the wedding dress on the hanger idea, you can instead have it photographed with the rest of your wedding day accessories. Create the perfect arrangement of your bridal bouquet, shoes, wedding bands and jewelry, and your photographer can shoot it with your wedding dress in the backdrop. Here the focus will be shared on all the items that will complete your transformation into a beautiful bride. Although the wedding gown will not be the center of attention, it will still receive its due attention.

Being zipped or buttoned up

Whether your wedding dress has buttons, zippers, clasps or a corset at the back, have a close-up shot of your wedding dress while it is being put into place. This is usually the last step of wearing your wedding dress. The image of it can bring back memories of the entire process and remind you of the many emotions you went through at the time. So, make sure you have this sentimental image in your album.

The side-shot

When you ask your photographer to get a full-length profile picture, capture your dress from a different perspective. Identify your better side of the face, and show this to the camera. You can even include accessories like the veil and bouquet to enhance the impact of this photograph. Then, look away from the camera and focus your gaze on a distant object to make this a masterpiece photo.

Photos with your bridal party

There will be a lot going on while you get ready. Your bridesmaids will (hopefully) fuss over you as you wear your wedding dress and accessories. Ask your photographer to document the action and excitement of the scene since it will be a memorable picture. Have the image taken when your bridesmaids help you step into your shoes, straighten your train or set the veil. It would be best if your bridesmaids were also dressed in their respective attires at the time to get the full effect.

Full-length portrait

A full-size photograph in your gown will be a great addition to your album. It will capture the same effect that your guests experience when they see you for the first time on your wedding day. Try to have this photo before you wear your veil, so the sheer layers of your cover don’t hide these details. Pick a dramatic setting for the image, which is brightly lit with natural light. If your venue has a spectacular view, make this your backdrop. Else, pose before a portrait or in an outdoor location to get stylish pictures.

Image of the back

Many modern dresses have showstopper back details like beautiful keyhole or illusion designs, stunning fabric button trains or even low-cut daring information. If your dress has any unique modern style elements in the back, ensure it is captured in your wedding photos. For this, have a picture taken as you face away from the camera. This will also draw attention to your hairstyle and any hair accessories you may have specially chosen for the occasion.

Photo of the wedding dress skirt

If your wedding dress has an exciting skirt and train, highlight it in your photographs with a suitable picture. Whether the skirt features tiered details, has a beautiful hemline or has perfect ruffles, show it from the right angle in an image. Try sitting down with your dress spread around you to capture the effect of a full skirt in its glory. For a ball gown skirt or one with ruffles, you can also sit with your feet up and the skirt spread out to display the various details. This idea is perfect for lace dresses.

Image of the fanned-out train.

If the dress has a long train, an image from the back with the train spread out to its full length will showcase its effect. This will also look great if the pictures are taken as you climb a staircase. The impact of the train and skirt will be magnified when taken from above or below and also be unique for the aerial positioning of the shot. For a longer train, get the full impact directly from the back.

With the veil

The veil is often one of the most striking bridal accessories that instantly enhance the bridal look. If your outfit includes a cover, get a picture of yourself in it. Lifting the veil also is a magical moment that makes for a fantastic photo. Ask your photographer to capture the effect of the cover on the dress from different angles and find the one that is most appealing to include in your album.

Zoomed-in image of intricate details

If your dress features intricate beading, lace appliques or embellishments, a close-up shot of these intricate details will capture it well. It is a good idea to look closely at your dress and find out which pieces you love the most. Please share this information with your photographer, so he can do justice to the shot by focusing on that one unique feature of the dress.

Above-the-waist shot

The neckline and waist add definition to a wedding dress. Let these features get their place in the spotlight with a photograph of the bodice. Zoom in on this area and include jewelry like necklaces or earrings for the full effect. An aerial image will also create a unique perspective and make it an exciting picture.

With the groom holding you

There is immense scope to experiment with this shot. You can even showcase the back of your dress in this shot as you face away from the camera. Include your bouquet for a pop of colour and prop that will work well in the setting. Other ideas are to hold hands and walk while the images are captured. Or sit in a strategic position, highlighting your dress’s direct focus.

An outdoor shot

Make the most of the natural lighting to get a beautiful portrait. Choose the golden hour, an hour before or after dawn and dusk, for the best pictures. Since the natural light at these times of the day is most flattering, your images will turn out great. If it is impossible to plan an outdoor shot at these times, make sure you step outdoors for a few pictures when there is plenty of natural light. Or choose a room with a window through which natural light streams in to get photos with similar effects.

Bridesmaids holding the train

Take a look at this picture, and I won’t have to say anything more to convince you. This will be a beautiful and classic picture of your wedding day. As you stride forward, have your bridesmaids pick up your train and hold it visible from all sides. This will enhance the beauty of your dress and create beautiful imagery with the contrast in colour with that of your wedding party.

Photo with your bouquet

This is one picture that cannot go wrong. Let the pure white colour of your dress pop against the bright colours of your bouquet when the image focuses on your dress and the smell in your arms. Unless it is a close-up shot, ensure that this image is taken in a clean backdrop with few other distractions. The bouquet should preferably be the only colourful element in the entire frame to capture the impact with full effect. Such photos are beautiful if there are saturated colours in the bouquet. However, your photographer may also be able to adjust the settings to make this picture unusually attractive.

Bride looking in the mirror

This is another wedding dress shot that is sure to be beautiful. The photograph will focus on the image in the mirror and the real bride with less clarity. Black and white photos of this scene will be stunning, and this is one you should consider. Make sure the mirror is clear, the surface below it uncluttered, and the background clean for the image to look its best.

On the dance floor

This is the chance to have yourself photographed at an angle that emphasizes the beauty of the dress while you dance with your husband. The dance floor, especially if it is a reflective surface, will form a beautiful backdrop when your photographer clicks the image from a low angle. A talented photographer will be able to capture this emotional moment with perfection. It will also be an opportunity to showcase your dress from a different position and highlight its statement features.

Walking away with your husband

This is a very symbolic photo and one that creates a nostalgic image. While the picture will also show off the back of your dress, it will help you relive the unique emotions you felt as you stepped into the new chapter of your life. So, make sure your photographer captures it.

Once you get your hands on your unique wedding dress, you may feel that no number of photos is enough to capture the beauty of the dress. While that is true, including it from all possible angles is the next closest thing you can do. Discuss the specific features of your clothing with your photographer, so he can ensure no detail is missed in the photographs.

For photogenic wedding dresses that are perfect for your special day, visit our bridal gallery at Best for Bride. With a wide range of designer wedding dress collections suitable for any taste, budget and body type, you will have no trouble finding your dream dress at our store. Visit our website today to shortlist your favourites.

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13 Most Important Things To Avoid The Week Before Your Wedding [Don’t Make These Mistakes!]

13 Most Important Things To Avoid The Week Before Your Wedding [Don't Make These Mistakes!]

As the wedding day approaches, brides and grooms will have hundreds of last minute things to tick off their checklists. Now, here is another list for brides to take note of—the Don’ts!

Brides, don’t take them lightly, for some mishaps cannot be undone when you have little time left. So, look out and stay away from making these big mistakes during the days leading up to your wedding.

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Wedding dress Fittings: Do’s and Don’ts

Shopping for your wedding dress is only half the work. Alterations are the next essential step to get your dress ready for your wedding day.

Although wedding dress alterations are not as complicated as wedding dress shopping, they present their own set of challenges. Preparing for the task in advance will help you get the best results. From our experience of many years in providing alteration services to brides, we have compiled this list of the important do’s and don’ts to help you ensure your alteration services progress smoothly. Take a look at what they are.

DO select a service that specializes in wedding dress alterations

It isn’t wise to entrust your wedding dress alteration to anyone other than a professional seamstress who specializes in wedding dress alterations. Unlike regular dresses, wedding gowns are complex garments. Not all tailors are adept at handling the complexity of such garments. They may also not have the tools to handle this task. So, you risk the outcome unless the dress has a simple silhouette and or simple details when you ask a regular tailor to do your alteration.

DON’T forget to check reviews

Wedding dress alterations are expensive. However, if the task is done well, it is worth every penny you spend. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Before you finalize a person for the job, make sure you check their reviews. Experienced and professional alteration services will have happy customers who provide good feedback. Also check around for recommendations from family and friends. Finally, don’t be hesitant to ask for samples of previous work from the alteration service provider, if you are unsure.

DO set aside enough time to complete all the fittings properly

Rush jobs often result in poor results. So, set aside enough time to properly complete your alterations. You will usually need two to three fitting appointments to complete the task. Make your first appointment at least six weeks before your wedding date. Schedule the rest of the appointments after consulting your seamstress. Make sure that your appointments are spaced well, so that your tailor has enough time between sessions to complete the intended tasks on time. Follow this wedding dress shopping timeline on the Knot for best results. 

DON’T forget to factor in the budget for alterations

When you plan your wedding dress budget, don’t forget to include the cost of alterations. The expenses will depend on the size of dress you buy and the changes you desire. Some types of alterations are more expensive than others. For instance, custom changes like extra embroidery, moving of the hemline to another height or adding extra fabric to a dress can amount to a decent amount. Account for alterations into your planned dress budget, and you needn’t worry about your dress costing more than you anticipate.

DO schedule your final fitting closer to the wedding date

Your wedding dress is supposed to be perfectly fitted to your exact measurements. It is highly unlikely that you will retain the same shape or weight throughout your engagement, especially if you intend to lose weight in time for the wedding. Although you should schedule your fitting sessions weeks early, plan the last one just a week or two before your wedding day. This will allow your seamstress to fit the dress to your exact measurements so it drapes perfectly on your special day.

DON’T get the size wrong

If you are on a major weight loss program, it is important that you switch to a maintenance program at least two weeks before your wedding day. Accept how your body is at the time, and have your dress adjusted to the exact measurements. It isn’t likely that you will lose considerable weight during the time left. And if you do, you won’t look great in a dress that just hangs loosely off your frame. So, once your last dress fitting is done, say goodbye to your weight loss plans as well.

TIP: When you go dress shopping, never select a dress that is smaller than your actual size. Although you are sure to lose weight and fit into it in the months that come, it is a risk. If you do, your tailor can take in the extra inches and make it fit you correctly. However, if you don’t lose weight as intended, it is extremely difficult to add extra inches to a gown. This can ruin the finishing of the dress and hence isn’t advisable.

DO take the suggestions of your professional seamstress seriously

Your tailor will have had enough experience in carrying out alterations. So, she ought to give you the best possible advice regarding custom changes and size alterations. Go with her suggestions and don’t compel her to make changes she thinks aren’t possible. Remember that your seamstress can weigh several factors like fabric quality, placement of embellishments, your body type etc to figure out what changes are right and what aren’t. Accept her suggestions and choose to do alterations that she thinks will fit you best.

DON’T rush with custom changes or they can end up as a mess

It is possible that you want to make your dress truly unique through custom changes that alter the appearance of the dress entirely. If you decide to do this, remember that this usually involves more work than regular dress fittings. Discuss the necessary time with your seamstress and schedule your appointments accordingly. Make sure you leave enough buffer time before the wedding day to make sure the dress is ready and complete with all necessary alterations in time for your wedding.

DO remember to wear your wedding shoes to your alteration session

One of the things you should get right at your wedding dress fitting is the hemline of the dress. A hemline that is too long is an invitation for disaster. It can cause you to trip and fall, apart from making your dress look less than perfect. On the other hand, a dress that is too high ruins the entire bridal look. A floor-length gown should simply graze the ground as you walk. The height of your heels affects this greatly. Your dress can end up being too short or too long depending on the heel height. So, wear them to your dress alteration session.

Make sure you go shopping for your shoes soon after you complete dress shopping, so they are ready to try on by the time of your alterations. If the original shoes aren’t available, at least wear a pair with the same heel height that you intend to wear on your wedding day.

DON’T take too many people with you when you attend your fitting session

You may be tempted to invite your friends, bridesmaids and family to your fitting session. However, this isn’t a great idea. Not only can this be a distraction, it will also spoil the surprise of how you will look as a bride. Ask just a bridesmaid or your mother to come along to your alteration. Entrust the task of learning how to bustle your dress to this person. You can communicate what you want with your tailor on your own, and leave the rest of the work to her to handle.

DON’T hesitate to speak up your mind

Although you may not know much about wedding dress alterations and the details it involves, you should openly discuss your ideas with the tailor. Be flexible with your ideas and let her make suggestions that you may not have thought of. If you aren’t happy with the suggestions your seamstress makes, discuss this with her. This will allow her to make other suggestions that appeal better to you. In either case, open communication will allow you to clarify your doubts and find a dress that fits your vision perfect.

DO make sure you can comfortably move in your dress after it fits correctly

Alterations are intended to make sure the dress fits you closely. It should match your exact measurements, so the dress drapes on your figure without any bits hanging loose or bulging anywhere. While the dress ought to fit you like a glove, it is nonetheless necessary that you be able to move around in it. It shouldn’t be too tight that it stifles your movement. You should be able to walk, turn around and dance in it. Make sure this is possible at each of your dress alteration sessions. This is very important especially if your dress silhouette is a snug-fitting one like the mermaid, that tapers towards the feet and constricts free movement.

DON’T forget to check how the overall look comes together at the final session

Make sure that the big reveal on your wedding day is perfect, by checking it out for yourself at your fitting session. Book your hair and makeup trial on this day. Head to your bridal boutique after getting your hairstyle and makeup done as you would on your wedding day. When you try your dress on, you can see how the overall look comes together. This gives you the opportunity to tweak or change your style if you deem it necessary.

DO learn how to bustle your dress during the fitting

Bustling your wedding dress is a complex, but essential part of your wedding day. Ask your maid of honor or another bridesmaid to understand how to do it correctly after the wedding ceremony. For this, ask her to accompany you to one of your fitting sessions. Your seamstress can demonstrate the process and teach her how to do it correctly. If there are any questions or concerns, this opportunity will also allow you to clarify it and get it done without issues on your wedding day.

DON’T forget to wear the right undergarments to your fitting session

If your wedding gown must fit you exactly, it is important that you wear the same undergarments to the fitting sessions as you would on your wedding. Find perfectly fitting, functional undergarments that create the right silhouette, for this purpose. Make sure that it doesn’t show from beneath the white color of your wedding dress. It is advisable to pick nude colors for this. Wear it to your fitting sessions, so your seamstress can alter the measurements correctly based on this factor.

DO find a reliable pressing and steaming service for your destination wedding

If your wedding is at a faraway destination, you will have to travel with your gown. Handling the gown during the journey can cause wrinkles, especially if the fabric is stiff and structured. Locate a reliable steaming and pressing service at your destination. They can get the wrinkles out and refresh your dress after the long journey. If you are lucky and the wrinkles are minimum, you can get them out by hanging it in a steamy bathroom.

TIP: If you must travel with your wedding dress, choose one with lightweight, breathable fabric that does not wrinkle easily. Also keep the embellishments to a minimum to avoid the chances of damage to it. For more ideas on how to pick the right dress for your destination wedding, take a look at this article on the Brides website. 

DON’T forget to check your dress for any signs of damage that need to be addressed

Take a close look at your wedding dress before the conclusion of every session to make sure it is free from damage. If you find any stains, tears, frayed threads or embellishments that come off, have the damage rectified at your fitting session. Don’t overlook this step at this stage. It will not be easy to have it fixed if you discover such damages later, if you find it on your wedding day.

Tailors specializing in wedding dress alterations have the expertise to do dress alterations. Stores like Best for Bride that offer custom wedding dress designs will have seamstresses with experience in custom stitching of wedding dresses. This will help greatly in ensuring a better finish for your completed wedding dress. Check out our alteration service at Best for Bride and the price rate for each change at this link to our website. 

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The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide [2024] to Preparing for Your Wedding Dress Shopping

The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Your Wedding Dress Shopping

Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting wedding planning tasks for a bride. We like to think of it as a wonderful and unique journey where brides explore diverse options and finally find a magical dress that transforms them into the beautiful brides they always wanted to be.

However, the path to finding this one and the only perfect wedding dress is not simple. It is fraught with challenges and the options are endless. So, it is essential to plan for the task and avoid drowning in the endless variety of dresses presented to you.

This is where we will help you!

This step-by-step guide will prepare you for your impending wedding dress shopping and the task will not overwhelm you.

Over the next chapters, we will tell you what to expect at each stage leading to wedding dress shopping. We will also tell you how to navigate potential issues so you can enjoy the shopping experience, just like you deserve to.

Let us begin!

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