Bridal Softness: Capturing the Getting Ready Moments with Light and Reflection
As part of a recent wedding content day at Ruby Manor, I had the opportunity to photograph a stunning bridal setup that focused on the “getting ready” portion of the day of a wedding day. This shoot took place in one of the Manor’s beautiful, light-filled rooms—a space designed to feel elegant, intimate, and full of character.
From the graceful curves of the vintage couch to the glow of the vanity mirror, every element in the room worked together to create the perfect setting for soft, bridal portraits.
Creating Softness and Glow
I wanted to keep the images bright and airy, allowing the natural light in the room to wrap gently around the bride. With her beautifully rich, dark skin tone, the light created a luminous contrast that felt both modern and ethereal.
Proper exposure and softness were key—I made sure to avoid harsh highlights or overexposed areas while still allowing the light to highlight her features in a flattering, glowy way.
Playing with Reflections
The room’s many mirrors gave me space to explore different perspectives.
Whether it was her reflection in the vanity mirror or a layered moment caught in a hand held mirror, the mirrors allowed me to:
Add depth and dimension
Create subtle storytelling moments (her looking at herself, adjusting earrings, etc.)
Frame the bride in a more cinematic, almost editorial way
I love how reflections can symbolize self-reflection, transformation, and quiet anticipation—fitting for such a pivotal part of the wedding day.
Timeless Backdrops, Modern Mood
Much of my shots took place on a classic couch and in front of a vintage-style vanity. The styling was soft and romantic, and I leaned into poses that felt graceful but relaxed—slight shoulder turns, soft hands, and intentional use of space.
I also made sure to get a mix of:
Full-length poses that highlight the room
Creative angles using mirrors and foreground elements
