The Southern Bride’s Guide to Bridal Portraits: Part One | Why Bridal Portraits Are a Southern Wedding Tradition Worth Keeping

As a Mississippi wedding photographer, one of my favorite things about Southern weddings is how deeply rooted they are in tradition on many things. From the way families gather to celebrate, to the heirlooms passed down through generations, there’s something so special about the way we honor love here in the South.

One tradition that has always held a special place in my heart is the bridal portrait session. It’s one of those experiences that feels both timeless and personal, and every bride who steps in front of my camera for her session walks away saying how glad she is that she did it.

A Southern Tradition with Heart

Bridal portraits have been part of Southern wedding culture for generations. Long before wedding days became full of timelines and big celebrations, a bride would take time before the wedding to have a formal portrait made.

That portrait would often be displayed at the reception and later hung in the family home. Many brides grew up seeing their mother’s or grandmother’s bridal portrait on display, and continuing that tradition feels like a beautiful way to honor the women who came before them.

Here in the South, it’s not just a photo session. It’s a moment to pause and soak in what’s happening — the transition from engagement to marriage, and the joy that comes with seeing yourself as a bride for the very first time.

Why It’s Still Worth Doing Today

Even though weddings have evolved and styles have changed, bridal portraits remain one of the most meaningful experiences a bride can have and there are so many reasons to love them.

Like what you ask? They give you a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. You get to see how your dress, hair, and makeup photograph together and make any small adjustments before the big day arrives. It’s also a wonderful time to bring your bouquet and accessories so you can see your full bridal look come to life.

Beyond all of that, it’s just a special experience. There’s a calmness to bridal sessions that you don’t always get on the wedding day. It’s a few hours just for you to laugh, to breathe, and to take in the excitement of everything that’s about to unfold.

A Modern Take on a Classic Tradition

What I love most about bridal portraits is how each one feels unique. While the tradition itself is old and meaningful, modern brides are making it their own.

Some choose a classic, timeless look inside their venue, while others go for soft light and Southern charm under the oak trees or along the Mississippi coast. I’ve even had brides include their dogs, heirloom veils, or a classic car.

The result is always the same…portraits that feel like you.

Next in This Series

In part two of The Southern Bride’s Guide to Bridal Portraits, I’ll walk you through how to prepare for your session, from choosing the right location to making sure you feel completely confident and relaxed in front of the camera.

If you’re planning your bridal portraits soon and looking for a Mississippi or New Orleans bridal photographer who loves capturing timeless, joyful images, I’d love to chat about your vision and help you create something truly special!