We often don't see a lot of curvy brides in mainstream wedding publications
and it's not for the lack of them existing, but it could be a lack of flattering poses offered to plus size women to truly accentuate their beauty. So I wanted to do a blog a little different from my usual today. This blog will share some of my favorite posing tips for beautiful curvy brides that I've learned through my 10 years of photographing weddings with my husband.
Play with Angles
Experiment with different angles to find the most flattering ones for the bride. Shooting from slightly above can elongate the body and minimize double chins. While shooting from a lower angle can add drama and highlight features, keep in mind that it may not be flattering for everyone.
Focus on the Face
Encourage your bride to relax her shoulders and elongate her neck. Direct her to tilt her chin slightly down and towards the camera for a more flattering angle. Instruct her to take a deep breath in and exhale with the assurance that her photographer has her back and that these photos will look Ahhhhmazing! So often we get nervous in front of the camera, keep assuring your bride that as her photographer the photos will be something she will be happy to see for years to come.
Dynamic Movement
This is my favorite! Incorporate movement into the poses to add fluidity and energy to the photos. For example, have the bride walk towards or away from the camera, or twirl her dress to capture the fabric in motion and/or give her a movement prompt that interacts with the surrounding scenery.
Play with Lighting
Experiment with different lighting setups to enhance the bride's features and create a soft, flattering glow. Natural light can be particularly flattering, so consider shooting outdoors or near large windows. For this shoot, we were lucky enough to have a combination of lighting through a large window at the Pampas Root Studio. Gabby was kind enough to do a series of poses throughout the day as the lighting changed from soft overcast to harsh full light and we love the dynamic differences between the two looks!
Snatch the Waist
Use poses that draw attention to the waistline. You can achieve this by having the bride place her hands on her hips or by slightly angling her body to the side, creating a natural curve at the waist.
Use Props
Props can add interest to the photos and provide something for the bride to interact with. Consider using a bouquet, veil, or even a chair or bench for the bride to lean on or sit on, creating natural and relaxed poses.
Encourage Trust and Confidence
Confidence is key to looking and feeling beautiful in photos. Hiring a photographer that you can trust to make your photos look good is just as important.
Encourage your bride to stand tall, smile genuinely, and exude confidence in her poses. As a photographer, constantly give out positive affirmations and Above all, have some fun!
Group Shots with Loved Ones
Including family and friends in group shots can help the bride feel supported and surrounded by love on her special day. These candid moments can capture genuine emotions and create beautiful memories.
Capture Candid Moments
Some of the most beautiful and authentic photos from a wedding day come from capturing candid moments. Encourage the bride to interact naturally with her partner or loved ones, and be ready to snap photos of those genuine smiles and laughter.
Positivity and Support
Above all, create a positive and supportive atmosphere during the photoshoot. Make the bride feel comfortable and empowered, and let her know how stunning she looks throughout the process. Your encouragement and positivity will shine through in the final photos.
This shoot was the second installment into our collaboration with Elite Secrets Bridal and Elite Design House titled “Curvy Done Right” where we celebrate bespoke bridal designs for plus size women.
IT'S TIME WE CELEBRATE AND NORMALIZE THEIR PRESENCE IN EVERY SPACE, FOR THEY ARE A TESTAMENT TO THE STRENGTH AND BEAUTY THAT RESIDES WITHIN US ALL.
Love Deeply,
Megan Pitts
Hello@megapixelsmedia.com
VENDORS
Model @mzgabbby9791
Planner @jessicajevents @theothersidecreatives
Venue @pampasrootsstudio
Bridal Gown + Accessories @elitesecretsbridal @elitedesignhouseofmd
Photographer/Videographer @megapixelsmedia
Florist @oakandpoppyeventdesign
Baker @cakesbykakes
Calligrapher @larsenlane
Make-up Artist: @iriebeaute @greencleanskin
Hair @b.evanshair @prettycurlzrock @niastylz
Creative Director and Bridal Stylist @atarahstyles
