I love the drama and light in this shot, taking during a bridal prep session at the beautiful Swan Hotel in Wells, Somerset. It's rare to find a makeup artist who brings her own lighting equipment, but when they do - well, I can be assured of getting wonderful bridal makeup images like this one!
All too often, the rooms in which the bride and her bridesmaids are getting ready in are dark, with little natural light (or certainly not enough to offer the makeup artist enough to work with). Therefore, the artist has to position the subject as close as possible to the window in order to make the most of the light that there is, and avoid the issue of colour casts of artificial lighting. But with a little planning, as you can see, this particular makeup artist was able to work anywhere in the room and have enough light to create the perfect bridal look.
If you read my blog regularly, you'll know that I'm rather obsessed with taking images of the bridal preparations - mainly because during this time I can get some beautiful images of the bride whilst she is occupied with other things. I love to photograph the story of the wedding day, and for me the bridal preparations are an important part of this. Plus, it's wonderful for the groom to be able to see these images after the wedding day, too!
If you're considering whether to have photography of your bridal prep, but are worried that don't want to have pictures taken of you whilst your hair is messy or without makeup - then don't worry. I always speak to my clients beforehand to discuss what they are and aren't comfortable with in terms of what to photograph. For example, some brides are entirely happy for me to photograph them barefaced and in their pyjamas - whilst others prefer just to have the 'finishing touches' photographed. It's all a matter of personal choice, and I work to whatever brief I'm given. But also, do remember that I never photograph anything that you wouldn't be happy being able to show to your guests afterwards - so your modesty is always my first priority!
