Fool-Proof Bridal Party Shot List

Sometimes it can be hard in the moment to decide what to do in a picture. It’s a tale as old as time…

What do I do with my hands?

I don’t know any funny faces!

Should I do something?

No, I’m not going to ask you to make a funny face with your bridesmaids at your wedding (unless you want to do that!), but you get the picture. Some people just seem to naturally have a few poses in their arsenal, and some people don’t… but that’s why I’m here! I’ve been photographing weddings for a few years now, and I’ve narrowed bridal portraits down to a few key poses that you can build on as much or as little as you want.

It’s typically rare to have all your best friends in one place at one time outside of your wedding, so I want all my brides to make the most of this time. The group photos are pretty straight-forward: smile at the camera, smile at each other, walk together, and that’s that. It’s the portraits with the individual bridesmaids that can create the awkward moment of trying to find a pose that suits the two of you and doesn’t look forced.

Here are my four signature bridal party shots (plus a few more) that don’t miss, and they’ll be photos you’ll cherish forever!

Traditional Portrait

This pose is timeless— enough said (but I’ll say more). You can’t have a bridal party session without this one! This is one you’ll hang on your wall and not hide in an album on your coffee table. Again, your wedding day is one of the only days when you’ll have all your girls together at one time (not to mention, with a professional photographer present!), so it’s important to get those signature shots that will stand the tests of time and trends.

Best Friend Shot

I don’t consider this a “candid” shot necessarily. This one is pretty simple: look at each other and smile! It captures some personality, looks natural, and doesn’t stray too far away from that timeless feel.

“As always, my goal as a photographer is to tell your story in the most genuine way possible and capture all the moments I can throughout your day. ”

Throw Those Bouquets Up!

Not only is this a classic wedding photo, but it’s also a chance to show off your dresses! The bouquets are beautiful, but we always need a moment for the dresses. Of course, you can always take pictures without your bouquets, but I think it’s always a great idea to incorporate both into a photo or two in your gallery.

Candid Shots

I know, I know. This post is supposed to HELP you choose poses that look natural, and now I’m telling you to be candid AND look natural? Don’t fret: I’m going to give you some ideas for some “candid” poses if you’re struggling. You could go the route of the image above—a tight hug with big smiles, or you could do something like these:

Forehead Kiss

It always depends on your relationship with your bridesmaid, but this is always a sweet pose for sisters, cousins, or your absolute BEST friend.

Leg Pop

This all depends on the style of your dress and your bridesmaids’ dresses, but it’s always a great choice to add dimension to a photo.

Conversation

If all else fails, just have a little conversation, and I’ll capture the candid moments in that! More than likely, someone will say something funny, and I’ll get some great laughing shots like…

Laughter

…this! This is a classic candid, and I try my best to capture it at every wedding I shoot. This is as natural as it gets!

As always, my goal as a photographer is to tell your story in the most genuine way possible and capture all the moments I can throughout your day. I want to give you a gallery that highlights not only your marriage but also your friendships with your bridesmaids. You’ll never want to stop looking through it!