Mother of the Bride, bridal portrait photos will definitely be among some of the most beautiful photos ever taken of your daughter. A little planning before the photo session will reap a great reward so if you haven’t done it yet, start a list of possible shots you’d love to see the photographer capture of your sweet girl.

Be sure to add a stairway shot to your list of possibilities. Of course, capturing this particular shot will depend on the location of the photo shoot, but if there is a stairway anywhere on the premises or nearby, ask the photographer to take a few shots there. If you or the bride definitely want stairs included, keep that in mind as you select your location. Many historic buildings and homes have beautiful staircases that will translate into gorgeous photos.

Stairway shots can be so elegant and classy, whether looking down on the bride (as in the photo above of my daughter Kelli) or taken from behind the bride with her gown and train beautifully displayed on the stairs. Your photographer and/or your daughter may have some other great ideas for stairway shots as well.

So go prepared with ideas, MOB, and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime bridal portrait session. Be sure to take some tissues with you, though. I warn you there may be a few tears as you behold your beautiful daughter in all her wedding day finery!

*You might also like to read Bridal Portrait Idea: Windows Plus Great Light, Bridal Portrait Idea: A Mirror Shot, Bridal Portraits: Include Some Artsy Shots, Bridal Portrait Idea: A Shot with Mom, and Bridal Portrait Idea: Fun With Sunglasses!

*The Life Notes Subscriber Appreciation Giveaway is underway. Details are in my Oct. 19 post on my home page and sign-up is to the right under “Free For You.” Deadline is 6 p.m. Nov. 11. Don’t miss out on the chance to win a $25 gift card to Barnes & Noble!

*Photo by Will Flowers