For more than 70 years, thousands of brides have traveled to Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City to find their wedding day looks. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel the magic of Kleinfeld. Not only does Kleinfeld have 30,000 square feet filled with the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world, it also has the greatest professional staff of over 200 employees who are dedicated to finding and perfecting your bridal look.
Selling your wedding dress online on resale sites like Kleinfeld Again can be an excellent way to recoup costs and give your cherished bridal gown a new life. The key to attracting potential buyers lies in showcasing your dress with stunning photos. This guide will walk you through the process of capturing beautiful images that highlight your bridal gown’s best features.
1. Prepare Your Bridal Gown
Before photographing your gown, ensure that your dress is in pristine condition:
- Clean and steam the gown to remove any wrinkles
- Repair minor imperfections such as trimming loose threads
- Hang the dress by the hanger straps on a strong and durable hanger in order to maintain the gown’s condition
2. Choose the Right Location
Select a location that complements your bridal dress:
- Indoors: A clean, uncluttered room with plenty of natural light
- Outdoors: A garden or park with a neutral backdrop
- Avoid busy patterns or distracting elements
3. Lighting is Crucial
Proper lighting can make or break your photos:
- Use natural light: Shoot near large windows or outdoors on an overcast day
- Avoid harsh, direct sunlight
- If using artificial light, opt for soft, diffused lighting
4. Use Quality Photography Equipment
While smartphones have improved, consider using a DSLR or mirrorless camera:
- Use a tripod for sharp, steady shots
- Set your camera to its highest resolution
- If using a smartphone, use the rear camera and enable HDR mode
5. Capture Various Angles
Provide potential buyers with a comprehensive view:
- Full-length shots from front, back, and sides
- Close-ups of special details like lace or beading
- Photos of the train, bustle, and removable elements
6. Style Your Shots
Create visually appealing compositions:
- Use a dress form or mannequin to show how the gown hugs the body
- Include subtle props like a veil or bouquet
- Experiment with flat lays for accessories
7. Edit with Care
Post-processing can enhance your photos, but don’t overdo it:
- Adjust brightness and contrast to showcase true color
- Remove minor blemishes or dust spots
- Avoid heavy filters that may misrepresent the dress
8. Highlight Unique Features
Draw attention to what makes your bridal gown special:
- Capture any customizations or alterations
- Show off the gown’s silhouette and movement
- Include photos of matching accessories
9. Provide Context
Help buyers envision the dress in use:
- If comfortable, include photos of yourself wearing the gown
- Show the dress in different settings (e.g., indoor ceremony, outdoor reception)
- Demonstrate how it photographs in various types of lighting
Conclusion
By following these tips, you’ll be able to capture stunning photos that showcase your wedding dress or bridal gown in its best light. Remember, the goal is to provide potential buyers with a clear, accurate, and attractive representation of your dress. With great photos, you’ll increase your chances of selling your used bridal gown to the new owner.
Additional Tips for Selling Your Wedding Gown
- Include a size reference or measurements in your photos
- Showcase any preservation measures you’ve taken
- Consider creating a short video to show the dress in motion
With these strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to create a compelling listing that attracts potential buyers and helps your wedding dress or bridal gown find its new home!