The Modern Bridal Portrait Session

Bridal Portraits at The Durham Hotel by Richard Barlow Photography

Taking bridal portraits is a wedding tradition that brides have practiced for hundreds of years. Before cameras, families would commission oil paintings of their daughters to commemorate their departure into married life. For many people, the only picture that they have of their grandmother when she was a young woman is her bridal portrait.

Modern bridal portrait sessions are tailored to the brides’ unique style and personality. For example, want to take your bridal portraits at an art museum? How about a horse stable or your favorite coffee shop? Go for it. This timeless photo session is typically scheduled once the wedding dress is ready and no less than one month prior to the wedding date. 

You might be asking yourself, should I have bridal portraits done? Maybe your parents or family is encouraging you to book a session, and who could blame them, you’re their little girl! You’ll want to cherish this pivotal moment for years to come. Plus, there is much more freedom in modern bridal portraits that allow the bride to be comfortable with her session. 

Bridal Portraits by Richard Barlow Photography 

Richard Barlow of Richard Barlow Photography captured Caitlin Miles’ bridal portraits at The Durham Hotel. Richard is one of the best photographers in Raleigh. He has an artistic style, a knack for composition and has been shooting weddings since 2009. Richard also does boudoir photography in North Carolina.

“I love being granted access to people’s hearts and souls, and given the honor of photographing it for them. This exclusive honor comes with a great deal of responsibility, and I take that very seriously” says Richard. 

Richard has a background in architecture and sustainable design, which made this bridal portrait session at The Durham Hotel a perfect fit. 

Bridal Portraits at The Durham Hotel 

Located in downtown Durham, The Durham Hotel is a reclaimed mid-century building with ultra-modern and utterly chic decor. This boutique hotel offers multiple indoor and outdoor spaces that are the perfect background for bridal portraits. Photo-op areas include but are not limited to:

  • A rooftop with unbeatable views of the city
  • Aesthetically pleasing rooms throughout the hotel
  • Penthouse suite and private terrace
  • Cool street-side backdrops 

The Durham Hotel is also an amazing downtown location for your wedding! You can host a daytime ceremony on the rooftop and have cocktail hour / reception on the first-floor. Most services are available in-house, including beverage service, staffing, tables, chairs and décor for a unique space. Their menu offers a wide range of seasonal dishes and also serves locally sourced beer, wine and cocktails for receptions.

Click here to see a real wedding photographed by Richard Barlow Photography.  

You Might Also Like
Raleigh nc wedding caterer

What’s on the Menu?

We’ve got the scoop on the top North Carolina wedding caterers and what makes them stand out! If you want your wedding day cuisine to be uniquely delicious, keep reading!

Read More »