"Traditional Kimono Pre-Wedding Photos: A Collection of Must-Try & Popular Poses for Brides"
2017.11.10 published
Let's Study Popular Poses for Traditional Japanese Wedding Photo Shoots ♡
Traditional Japanese wedding photo shoots, or "wansōmae-dori," involve taking wedding photos while wearing white kimono or colorful uchikake. While it's important to capture lovely photos with your partner, don't forget to get some fabulous solo shots too! ♡
In this article, we'll introduce classic and popular poses for solo shots of brides in traditional attire.
It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to wear a traditional bridal outfit, so let's make sure to capture it well!*
[Traditional Japanese Wedding Photo Shoot] Bride's Classic Solo Shot Pose ① Back View
The first pose we introduce is a shot capturing the full body of the bride from the back, showcasing the charm of the white kimono or colorful uchikake. By holding the sleeves and spreading both hands, you can beautifully display the patterns on the long sleeves.
This way, you can slightly turn back and show off your profile!
Since there are not many poses that show the entire kimono, this is definitely a must-have shot! ♡
[Traditional Japanese Wedding Photo Shoot] Bride's Classic Solo Shot Pose ② Seiza (Kneeling Pose)
Next, we introduce the seiza pose, which is unique to traditional attire. By kneeling and looking away, you'll feel like a graceful Yamato Nadeshiko (traditional Japanese woman)*
A slight smile in your expression will create a gentle atmosphere. ♡
Here’s a shot of the bride seated in a seiza pose taken from an overhead angle. It appears more natural than a shot taken from directly in front.
It's recommended to keep the eyes downcast for a more alluring expression. ♩
For brides who want a classic and polished look, how about this seiza shot?
The composed stance of the bride gives a sense of elegance and tradition.
[Traditional Japanese Wedding Photo Shoot] Bride's Classic Solo Shot Pose ③ Full Body
It's essential to take a photo that captures the bride from head to toe, all the way down to her geta (wooden sandals). Although this isn't an unusual pose, sometimes photographers may not take it, so it's a good idea to include it in your instructions for peace of mind. ◎
Whether from the front or the side, let's get full-body shots from your preferred angle!*
[Traditional Japanese Wedding Photo Shoot] Bride's Classic Solo Shot Pose ④ Using a Parasol
A popular accessory for traditional Japanese wedding photo shoots is the parasol, and solo shots with it are highly recommended. The contrast between a bright red parasol and a pure white kimono is beautiful.
When holding the parasol, clasp your hands in front of your chest, and the wedding ring on your left ring finger will subtly show! ♡
A stylish pose of supporting the parasol with your arm while leaning it back is also charming and stunning. It draws you in with the bride's nonchalant expression.
Alongside heartwarming cute wedding photos, don’t forget to capture stunning images that mesmerize viewers with your beautiful traditional attire.
[Traditional Japanese Wedding Photo Shoot] Bride's Classic Solo Shot Pose ⑤ Focusing on Hair Design
It's also nice to take a close-up shot from the back that clearly shows the hair design in traditional attire. ♩
A pose that showcases the hair ornaments and the pattern of the uchikake beautifully is recommended.
Photos of hairstyles can easily be overlooked, so be careful—many brides regret not taking these!
For a hairstyle with hair ornaments on the side, show a slight profile like in this photo.
The luxurious white kimono adorned with golden embroidery and the camellia hair ornament look elegant and sophisticated.
[Traditional Japanese Wedding Photo Shoot] Bride's Classic Solo Shot Pose ⑥ Gazing at the Bouquet
The last pose we introduce is a solo shot of the bride intently gazing at her bouquet.
The traditional wedding bouquet typically features a round ball-shaped bouquet. Hold the ball bouquet with both hands and gaze at it lovingly. ♡
If it's a ball bouquet with tassel decorations, hold it with one hand and support it with the other.