Introduction
Planning a wedding is magical, overwhelming, exciting, and emotional all at once-and I truly believe that brides deserve support every step of the way. Over the years, I've photographed some beautiful wedding across Utah, from LDS temple ceremonies to cozy garden celebration, and one thing has always stayed the same: every bride wants to feel prepared and confident before the big day.
That's exactly why I created my Bridal Prep Guide-a beautifully designed, easy-to-follow resource packed with everything you need to know before stepping in front of my camera. Whether you're dreaming of timeless moments at the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, golden-hour portraits at Wheeler Farm, or an elegant indoor ceremony, this guide walks you through each part of your photography experience with me.
And the best part?
It's completely free.
What's Inside the Guide
This guide was carefully created to take away the guesswork so you can simply enjoy your day. Inside, you'll find:
Getting Ready Tips
How to prep your space, what details to set aside for photos, and ways to keep the morning calm and stress-free.
Timeline Support
Suggested photography timelines for LDS temple weddings and traditional ceremonies, plus buffer time to keep everything running smoothly.
Detail Checklists
Rings, bouquets, heirlooms, invitations, jewelry, perfume-all the things you don't want to forget but definitely can on such a big day.
Bride & Groom Portrait Tips
What poses photograph beautifully, how to relax in front of the camera, and why candid moments always win.
Family Photo Strategy
Simple grouping lists + my best tips for keeping this part of the day fast, organized, and enjoyable.
Bonus Tips from a Wedding Photographer
What lighting is best, how to navigate crowds at the temple, why golden hour matters, and the tiny tricks that make a huge difference in your final gallery.
It's truly everything I wish every bride knew before their photos-in one beautiful downloadable guide.
Why I made This Guide
I've always believed that photography should feel effortless, comfortable, and natural. My entire brand is built around candid storytelling-capturing the real connection, laughter, and emotion that make your day unforgettable.
This guide gives you the tools to feel ready, confident, and relaxed so we can create those storytelling moments together. I want my brides to feel taken care of from the very beginning, and this resource is a huge part of that experience.
Who This Guide Is For
This guide was created especially for:
*Utah brides planning LDS temple weddings
*Couples getting married anywhere in the Salt Lake Valley
*Brides who want stress-free, natural, candid photos
*Anyone who wants to understand the flow of their wedding photography day
*My current clients (and future ones!) who want to feel fully prepared
If you love simple, heartfelt, joy-filled photos-this is for you.
How to Download It
I've made it super easy!
Just click the link below:
What are Bridal Portraits?
Bridal portraits are a dedicated photo session before the wedding day where you're fully dressed-gown, veil, bouquet, jewelry, hair, makeup, everything. Think of it like the dress rehearsal of your dreams.
Why They're Worth it
*You get more time than the wedding day allows.
*You avoid the chaos and distractions of the big day.
*We can take photos and Multiple locations without worrying about guests.
*You get to test your entire bridal look before the wedding.
*You'll have beautiful prints ready for your reception.
Bridal portraits are all about letting you breathe, twirl, laugh, and really feel like a bride-without any pressure.
When to Schedule Your Bridal Session
Best Timing
Plan your session for:
*2-6 weeks before the wedding
*Golden hour (soft, glowing light that flatters every skin tone)
*After your dress alterations are complete
*Not the week of the wedding to avoid extra stress
Step-by-Step Scheduling Instructions
- Confirm your dress completion date with your seamstress.
- Choose your ideal location (temple, garden, field, downtown, etc.).
- Check sunset time for your date.
- Select a start time 90 minutes before sunset for warm, dreamy lighting.
- Book your hair & makeup artist for the same day, finishing 1-2 hours before your session.
- Coordinate your bouquet pick-up time so it looks fresh and hydrated.
Beauty Prep: Hair, Makeup & Skin
Your bridal session is the perfect dry run for your wedding day glam. Here's how to make it flawless:
Hair Prep
*Book your trial for the morning or early afternoon so it lasts through the session.
*Avoid tight curls (they look stiff). Go for soft curls, waves, or a loose bun.
*Bring
-Bobby pins
-Setting spray
-A small comb
-Mini hairspray
*If you're shooting at a windy location (Oquirrh Mountain-Daybreak...basically all of Utah), secure the veil with small elastics or hidden bobby pins.
Makeup Prep
*Wear foundation that is matte OR semi-matte, not super dewy. (Dewy makeup can look shiny in sun.)
*Bring:
-Powder or blotting papers
-Lipstick for touch-ups
-Q-tips
-Lash glue if wearing falsies
*If you have sensitive eyes, avoid waterproof mascara (it can smudge with wind + tears).
Skin Prep
*Moisturize your face and body the night before.
*Do NOT try new skincare the week of the session.
*Light exfoliation the day before helps makeup sit well
*Drink water + avoid salty foods to reduce puffiness
Dress & Accessories: Important Prep
Dress
*Steam your dress completely the morning of your session.
*Use a white or wooden hanger for dress photos.
*Transport your dress in a garment bag.
*Bring a lint roller for satin or crepe fabrics.
Veil
*Veils photograph unbelievably beautifully-they add motion and softness.
*If windy, secure with extra bobby pins.
*Bring a helper who can toss the veil for certain shots
Shoes
*Bring two pairs:
- Your actual wedding shoes for portraits
- Comfortable shoes for walking between locations
Utah locations often involve walking: gardens, gravel paths, temple grounds, red rocks-spare your feet!
Jewelry + Details
Place everything in one small bag:
*Earrings, necklace, bracelet
*Hair accessories
*Hair accessories
*Rings (engagement + wedding band)
*Perfume
*Heirloom items (brooch, locket, ribbon)
*Vow book
This makes detail photos so easy to style quickly.
Your Bouquet: The Secret to Timeless Portraits
Your bouquet is one of the biggest visual anchors in your photos.
Instructions for Bouquet Prep
*Ask your florist to create a full-size bouquet with movement and texture.
*Pick it up right before the session for freshness.
*Keep it in water until we start shooting.
*Bring a towel to pat the stems dry before holding it.
*Request a few loose stems for flat lays.
Artificial bouquets also work, but real florals elevate the whole look.
What to Bring: The Bride's Packing List
Bring these items in one tote or small bag:
Must-Bring Items
*Dress + veil
*Bouquet
*Rings
*Lipstick
*Blotting papers/powder
*Hairbrush + bobby pins
*Water bottle
*Comfortable shoes
*Lint roller
*Safety pins
*Small hand towel (especially if hot)
*You "pretty hanger" for dress shots
Optional (But SO Helpful)
*Cute robe for "getting ready" shots
*Fan or cooling spray for summer
*Jacket or shawl for winter
*Touch-up perfume
*Mini sewing kit
Posing, Movement & Relaxing in front of the Camera
You do NOT need to know how to pose-I guide you through everything. But these little tips help you feel confident:
How to stand
*Drop shoulders
*Keep knee slightly bent
*Chin forward & slightly down (never tucked)
*Relax hands-soft fingers
How to Move
Movement makes photos feel natural:
*Walk slowly
*Hold dress lightly
*Pick up you train
*Sway side to side
*Twirl gently
*Look down then lift your eyes to the camera
*Hold your bouquet low, not up at your chest
Veil Magic
We'll create:
*Soft draping
*Veil tosses
*Veil over-the-face-shots
*Walking shots with veil trailing behind
*Wind-blown romantic photos
If Your Fiancé Joins the Session
Many couples choose to turn bridals into a First Look Session.
Groom Prep Instructions
*Wear full suit + tile
*Shoes clean/polished
*Belt matching shoes
*Hair light-styled
*Empty pockets (no phones or keys!)
*Bring boutonniere
*Ring cleaned
Together, you'll get both romantic and candid moments you won't get on the wedding day.
Weather-Specific Prep (Utah Brides, this is Important!)
Hot Weather (May-Sept)
*Bring water
*Don't use heavy moisturizers
*Add body powder to prevent chafing
*Use setting powder or matte foundation
*Bring a fan or mini mister
Cold Weather (Oct-March)
*Wear nude leggings under your dress
*Bring a warm coat/shawl
*Keep bouquet in the car until needed
*Warm your hands between shots
Windy Conditions (Always possible at high-mountain temples)
*Secure your veil with bobby pins
*Bring texture spray
*Let the wind work FOR US-windy bridals are stunning
One Hour Before Your Session
Here's your final pre-bridals checklist:
*Eat a snack
*Drink water
*Touch up your lipstick
*Powder shiny areas
*Remove hair elastics from wrists
*Put on your wedding shoes
*Have your helper steam the final wrinkles
*Put you veil in last
*Gather all details in one place
The Mindset That Makes the Best Photos
Bridal portraits are meant to be:
*Calm
*Fun
*Romantic
*Dreamy
*Slow and Intentional
Take deep breaths, enjoy slipping into your dress, and let yourself feel beautiful. This is the only time you get to be in your dress without rushing anywhere.
I'll guide you through everything while capturing natural, emotional, timeless portraits you'll love forever.
Ready for Timeless Bridal Portraits?
Your bridal session should be calm, romantic, and completely centered around you-no rushing, no stress, just authentic, beautiful moments in your dream dress. If you're ready to plan a bridal session that feels effortless and magical, I'd love to help bring it to life.
Choose Your Next Step:
Let's Plan Your Wedding Photography
Whether you've already booked your date or you're just starting to look for a wedding photographer, I would love to talk about your vision and help you feel confident going into your day.
If you're planning a temple wedding, an outdoor ceremony, or a classic Utah celebration, I'm here to help create a photography experience that feels meaningful, joyful, and beautifully you.