If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What exactly is a bridal session, and do I really need one?” Well, you’re not alone. As a wedding photographer, I get this question all the time. And honestly? I love answering it.

Because while bridal sessions aren’t a requirement, they’re one of the most underrated (and meaningful) parts of the wedding photography experience. They give you space to feel like you, to slow down, soak it in, and see your full bridal look come to life before the big day.

Let’s break down what a bridal session is, why people book them, and how to know if it’s something you’d love.

View Jordans Studio Bridal Session here!

So, what is a bridal session?

A bridal session is a dedicated portrait shoot that happens before your wedding day. It’s just you (the bride), your dress, your bouquet (optional ), and your photographer. It is usually scheduled a few weeks before your wedding.

Think of it as a relaxed, intentional moment to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime season without the time crunch of a wedding timeline. You get dressed up exactly how you plan to look on your wedding day -hair, makeup, veil, everything, and we create beautiful, editorial-style portraits that focus solely on you. Bring your mom, your sister, or your bestie! I never mind and often encourage having one person with you.

Why do brides book bridal sessions?

✨ 1. You get to see everything come together.

You’ve spent months dreaming up your wedding-day look, and this is your chance to test it all in real time. From your makeup to your hairstyle to how your dress fits, you’ll get to experience it all in full. Plus if there are any changes needed to be made there is time to adjust for your hair & makeup artist. Think of it as your final “dress rehearsal”… but way more fun and photogenic.

✨ 2. You’ll have more time for creativity.

On your wedding day, we’re usually working within a timeline. But during a bridal session, we can slow down. No pressure, no rushing, just beautiful light, intentional posing, and room for creativity. That freedom often results in some of the most magazine-worthy images of your entire wedding experience.

✨ 3. It takes pressure off your wedding day timeline.

If wedding day portraits of just you are important to you, but your timeline is already packed…a bridal session is the perfect solution. It gives you the space to capture solo bridal portraits without needing to carve out extra time later.

✨ 4. You can gift the photos or display them at your wedding.

Many brides use a favorite bridal portrait in a framed display at the reception or as a keepsake gift for their parents. It’s a beautiful, timeless way to honor this moment in your life.

Should I book a bridal session?

Brides planning to wear sentimental or heirloom pieces and want them documented intentionally.

Brides who’ve booked a hair and makeup trial and want to make the most of it.

Anyone who wants to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera before the big day.

Brides who simply want a little extra magic — and permission to soak up this moment fully.

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Tips for planning your bridal session

If this sounds like something you’d love, here’s what to know when planning:

Mindset: This is your time to shine, not to stress. You don’t have to be a model to look incredible in these. Just be yourself and trust the process.

Timing: Schedule your session 4–6 weeks before your wedding, ideally on the same day as your hair and makeup trial.

Location: Choose a place that fits your vibe. Your wedding venue, a botanical garden, a studio, or even a historic estate would be perfect. It doesnt have to be your ceremony venue but a lot of times it is easier. The photos of Courtney’s bridal session above was taken at her wedding venue Bella Sera Gardens.

What to bring: Your full bridal look (including shoes and veil), bouquet (ask your florist for a trial version if you’d like!), touch-up makeup, and someone to help you get ready if needed.

The takeaway? It’s totally optional… but it might just become your favorite part.

Bridal sessions aren’t for everyone — but for the right bride, they’re such a gift. A chance to pause the planning chaos, see your vision come to life, and create something that feels truly personal.

And when you walk into your wedding day already feeling confident, radiant, and seen — it shows in every photo that follows.

Want to add a bridal session to your wedding experience?

I’d be honored to be there with you! Bridal sessions are pure art in my opinion and well worth every penny.

Let’s make something beautiful together.

Get in touch here and let’s talk about your vision. Because your love deserves a setting that feels just as magical as the story you’re telling.