Post-Wedding Sessions
What Is an After-Day Session?
An after-day session—also known as a post-wedding photo shoot—is a relaxed, romantic photography experience that takes place after your wedding day. Picture this: you and your partner, back in your wedding attire, revisiting the magic without the timeline stress. These sessions typically happen days or even weeks after your ceremony and last anywhere from 1 hour to half a day. It's a chance to capture stunning portraits in beautiful locations—without the wedding-day rush.
A golden-hour session near the lake at Lakeview Banquet Center in Laingsburg, Michigan.
Why Couples Choose Post-Wedding Photo Sessions
There are many reasons modern brides and grooms opt for a post-wedding shoot:
1. You Didn’t Get All the Photos You Wanted on the Wedding Day
Sometimes, wedding timelines get derailed—weather delays, running behind schedule, or simply choosing to spend time with guests. If your bridal portraits were missed or rushed, a post-wedding shoot gives you a second chance to capture those dream images in your dress and suit.
Bride and groom enjoying their portrait session in the gardens at Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
2. You Prefer a Laid-Back Photo Experience
Not every couple wants to squeeze formal portraits into a tight wedding timeline. If you skipped the first look or wanted to be fully present during cocktail hour, scheduling a dedicated session later allows you to slow down and truly enjoy the moment.
3. You Want Epic Photos in a Dream Location
Wedding day logistics often limit where you can go for portraits. But a post-wedding session? That’s your chance to travel—whether it’s a windswept cliffside, your honeymoon destination, or a local hidden gem that speaks to your love story.
Bride and groom dancing during their session in the mountains of Luray, Virginia at Stover Hall.
4. You Had a Destination Wedding But Want Local Photos
For couples who married out of state or abroad, a second session back home is a beautiful way to include your local landscape in your wedding gallery—without sacrificing time with your guests during the reception.
Engagement Session vs. Pre-Wedding vs. After-Wedding Shoots
Engagement Session: A casual, pre-wedding shoot that helps you get comfortable in front of the camera—often done in everyday outfits at a favorite spot.
Pre-Wedding Session: A styled shoot featuring your wedding attire (or similar), often scheduled before the wedding to create dramatic portraits for announcements or decor.
Post-Wedding Session: A stress-free, flexible photo shoot after the wedding where you can revisit your favorite moments, try a new location, or even do something adventurous—like getting into the water or hiking to a mountain peak.
Bride and groom enjoying their portrait session in downtown Fenton, Michigan at Millpond Park.
Why After-Wedding Portraits Often Turn Out Better
Couples love the results of their post-wedding sessions—and for good reason:
You’re more confident. By now, you've already had engagement photos and your full wedding day captured—you know what works and what feels natural.
You're relaxed. No wedding jitters, no timeline pressure. You’re simply enjoying each other.
You’ve built trust with your photographer. That comfort shows in your photos.
You can choose the perfect day. If the weather’s not ideal, you can reschedule.
You can change up the look. Try different makeup, a new hairstyle, or even a second dress.
You’re not worried about your outfit. Want to run into the lake or hike a trail in your dress? Go for it!
What Is a "Trash the Dress" Session—And Do You Have To?
A “trash the dress” shoot is a style of post-wedding session where you get bold with your bridal look—think woods, fields, water, mud, smoke bombs, or paint. Some brides fully commit to the creative chaos, while others simply dip their toes in the water (literally). Don’t worry—there’s no pressure to actually destroy your gown! Most brides take care of their dress and send it to the cleaner afterward.
Best Locations for a Post-Wedding Photo Shoot
Whether you're staying local or dreaming big, here are ideas for incredible after-day shoot locations in Michigan and across the USA:
Bride and groom enjoying time together in a field at Indian Springs Metropark in White Lake, Michigan.
Local Gems in Michigan & Nearby
Great Lakes – Beaches, cliffs, and dramatic views
State Parks – Michigan offers lush forests and scenic lakes
City Skylines – Detroit rooftop views and downtown architecture
Historic Buildings – Think the capitol building, courthouses, theaters, or grand hotels
Small Towns – Rustic charm and timeless Americana
Epic Destinations Across the U.S.
Mountains – Colorado Rockies, Smoky Mountains, or Black Hills
Desert Landscapes – Arizona, Utah, or Nevada (perfect for honeymooners in Las Vegas)
Winter Wonderland – Snow-covered backdrops in Minnesota or Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Beaches – From the Great Lakes to the Gulf Coast, sandy shores are always a favorite
Forests – Towering sequoias or moss-covered groves offer a magical vibe
Big Cities – New York City, San Francisco, Washington DC—urban elegance never goes out of style
Bride running on a trail in the woods of Marcellus, Michigan.
Ideas for Fun Activities During Your Session
Spice up your shoot with unique elements that tell your story:
Ride in a vintage car or hop on a motorcycle
Share a kiss in a rowboat or sailboat. Detroit offers sailboat rental for photoshoots!
Dance on a mountaintop
Hike with your pup
Play in the waves at golden hour
Bring props like your bouquet, champagne, or meaningful heirlooms
Portrait of a bride and groom enjoying their session together at the Detroit Institute of Arts in Detroit, Michigan.
Beauty Prep Tips
Hair & Makeup: Hiring a pro will elevate your images, especially if you’re going for an editorial feel.
Natural Glow: If you’re doing your own makeup, opt for soft, photo-friendly products and a touch of powder.
Hair Touch-Ups: Even loose styles benefit from a stylist’s touch to keep everything photo-ready in the wind or humidity.
