Say "I do" to these stunning bridal shoot themes for 2025

Brides, this one’s for you—because if there’s one thing that should be as unforgettable as your wedding day, it’s the pictures. And trust us, 2025 is not about basic poses. The new wave of bridal photography is all about energy, personality, and capturing the moment in a way that actually feels like you. Whether you want your bridal shoot to look like it belongs in a high-fashion magazine, a dreamy fairytale, or a moody romance film, this year’s trends are bringing the drama, the magic, and the main character energy you deserve.

To get the ultimate lowdown, we spoke to two wedding photography pros redefining the game. Manvi Gandotra, founder of 1Plus1 Studio, travels the world capturing love stories with her signature storytelling style, while Anand Rathi, the creative force behind Reels and Frames, who, amongst several others, brought the stunning visuals of the Adani wedding to life. These two have seen it all, and they’re here to break down the biggest bridal shoot trends of 2025, and why you’ll want them on your wedding wishlist.

So, whether you’re dreaming of windswept romance or editorial-level glam, here’s what’s hot in bridal photography this year.

Editorial elegance

If you’ve ever envisioned yourself gracing the cover of a fashion magazine, this trend is for you. High-fashion bridal shoots are taking over in 2025, with dramatic lighting, sculpted gowns, and power posing that make a statement. Think bold compositions, glossy backdrops, and a sense of effortless cool—because who says wedding photos can’t double as an editorial campaign? According to Manvi Gandotra, “Bridal photography is moving away from just ‘stand and pose’ to something far more immersive and narrative-driven.” With structured silhouettes, sleek updos, and a little attitude, these shoots are all about turning you into the bridal icon you are.

Ethereal dream

If your Pinterest board is full of soft sunlight, flowing dresses, and misty meadows, this trend is your soulmate. Brides are stepping away from grand, over-the-top sets and embracing organic beauty, rolling meadows, misty lakes, and golden hour magic. It’s all about soft movement, delicate details, and that just-right glow that makes everything look straight out of a fairytale. “Brides are opting for shoots in natural light and around golden hour, they even schedule their events accordingly,” says Anand Rathi. Flowing dresses that catch the wind, barely-there makeup, and a quiet, cinematic feel make this trend perfect for those who want their bridal portraits to look like a love story written by nature itself.

Minimalist intimacy

For brides who love the idea of wedding photos that feel like home, this trend is all about warmth, nostalgia, and effortless charm. Think getting-ready shots in your childhood bedroom, soft morning light filtering through the windows, or a quiet rooftop moment with a cup of coffee. There’s something magical about capturing raw, unfiltered emotions in spaces that actually mean something to you. “'Homely' and 'relatable' are the keywords of 2025,” says Anand Rathi. “Even at destination weddings, opulence is just an undercurrent, beauty is the hero of the show.” These intimate shoots aren’t about grandeur; they’re about feeling, connection, and photos that will make you nostalgic for years to come.

Cinematic romance

Step aside, rom-coms, this year, the real love stories are happening in wedding shoots. Cinematic wedding portraits are making waves, with dramatic lighting, storytelling elements, and compositions that feel straight out of a movie. Picture a bride in a flowing gown under neon city lights, a candlelit vow exchange, or an epic rain-soaked kiss (with the perfect backlight, of course). The moody contrasts, deep shadows, and rich tones bring an element of timelessness to these shoots. “No more flat lighting! Directional sources add texture, depth, and drama,” says Manvi Gandotra. If you want your wedding photos to look like an Oscar-worthy masterpiece, this trend is all yours.

Cultural renaissance

Brides are celebrating their roots in style—this trend is all about celebrating heritage with a fresh, modern twist, whether it’s a regal bridal look in an ancestral home, an heirloom-laden ensemble against the backdrop of an old haveli, or a stunning temple shoot infused with deep cultural symbolism. Brides are choosing to incorporate vintage jewellery, handwoven fabrics, and time-honoured traditions in ways that feel both nostalgic and fashion-forward. “We’re seeing brides choose colour palettes of their dresses based on the venue and décor theme, which makes for excellent colour harmony in photos,” says Anand Rathi. Whether it’s an embroidered lehenga against an ancient palace or a delicate lace veil floating through a historic cathedral, this trend is all about blending the past and present in the most stunning way possible.

So, take note, brides—2025 is all about making your wedding photos yours. Whether you want high-glam, soft romance, cosy nostalgia, or cultural richness, these trends prove there’s no one way to do a bridal shoot—only your way. So go ahead, add them to your wishlist, and get ready for photos that’ll make future-you cherish your wedding memories with a cherry on top.

Lead image: Instagram/ Alia Bhatt

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