Male Photographers and Brides in Underwear...

How do you experienced hands handle this situation.

I guess I see that particular part of the Bride's day as something she may or may not want documented - when she first slips into the dress. Is this something that you guys bring up with the brides during the consultation phase, or simply avoid it unless it is specifically requested?

I'm quite comfortable shooting it, but I am sensitive to the fact that some women might not be totally at ease with a guy with a camera in the room whilst she prepares.

My wife is my assistant, and I guess one of my standing policies would be that she be in attendance at all times during the potentially sensitive moments - for the sake of accountability.

Any insight?

I tell my brides "if the door's closed I won't come in, please open it when you're comfortable with me in the room". Some keep it closed until they're completely dressed, some never close it. I don't worry about the accountability thing, there are usually at least a few people in the room, and I have a pretty good photo record of what went on!

agree with Tim, I do same thing.. do open.. I'm there..but idealy is to have female assitant to partner, but I'm not there yet...one day for sure..

i agree that it's a particularly sensitive issue for male photographer, but any photographer redgardless of gender needs to pay attention to this too. The bride at my last wedding didnt have a problem with me being in the room, she just didnt want pictures of her getting dressed. I stayed in the room though so that I could take pictures of her mother tying up the back, and that was perfectly fine.

i think it really depends on the bride's (and even the groom's) comfort level, but for males especially I would bring it up before the wedding day so there are no suprises.

I talk it through with the bride prior. I tell them to send me out at a point they feel is sensible and to have me called back in as soon as she's comfortable. My wife will stay the whole time, it's up to the bride whether any shots get taken whilst I'm not there, and who would get to see them.

I guess it's just a case of being sensitive and playing it by ear.