Bridal Show Revelation - Size Inclusivity

As wedding photographers, we are interested in how people connect with their wedding vendors, especially their photographers. Is it word of mouth? Is it a recommendation from a friend? A Google search? Is it from bridal shows and expos? We decided to check out a bridal show a couple of weekends ago and we thought we would share some observations.

We were surprised the booths some of the photographers had set up. Some had couches. Others had trellis like structures with café lights. There were lots of silk flowers and gold accents. It was apparent that people had spent time and quite a bit of money on their displays. Some had many photos on display, others just had a handful. There was a real variety.

Another item of note was the materials that were being handed out to attendees. Most of the vendors had postcard or larger sized mini brochures. Usually a glossy postcard that featured more photos of brides. Some had pricing, some did not. Again, depended on the photographer.

There was something that was missing from all the displays (with the exception of one boudoir photographer) and that was any feature photos of curvy or plus size brides. There was one on the postcard of a photographer but that was it. No visible photos of a bride that looked like most of the women attending. Moreover, it really got me thinking about how brides must feel when looking for a photographer when all they see are brides that do not look like them.

I had it good when I was getting married. Our photographer was not only a close family friend and a plus size woman. She totally got my concerns about the visuals for the wedding. I know that every woman has something they do not like about themselves. We all have it. For some of us the pressure to be the vision of perfection is complicated by already being outside the normal size range for bridal (wedding dresses is another blog post for sure).

As plus size people, we get the worries. We want everyone to feel his or her best when we photograph them not matter their size, who they love or anything else. We have decided to make it a priority to become the size inclusive photographers of choice in our area. That means all sizes and shapes, without question or concern. We want everyone to feel empowered by what we create. We are committed to providing the very best so that when you look at the photos in the years to come, you too feel the very best.