It is not just a way to preserve moments, but an opportunity to unwind from the rush of the wedding day and fully immerse in the joy of being newlyweds. In the whirlwind of events, a post-wedding shoot is a way of slowing down and reliving the treasured occasion, even after the big day fades.

A large portrait of my father and mother dressed in their bridal attires now hangs on the walls of our living room. The black-and-white photograph, taken in a studio a few days after their marriage, captures the emotions of a loving occasion "frozen" in time. The simplicity of the photograph reflects a deeper connection, an intimate continuation of the journey embarked upon by them.

That was also the tradition back then — to visit a studio to freeze time. Professional wedding photography was almost unheard of, and one had to rely on a photography enthusiast relative to capture the images of the day. The trend was to hire a seasoned professional later and participate in a session while donning the best.

Today, weddings are bigger than ever. The family, the friends, the celebrations — it all comes together to create memories that one will treasure forever, and people do everything possible to preserve them. But, given the hectic schedule of a modern Bangladeshi marriage, it is easy to miss some of the key details. Perhaps, a shared glance, a soft touch, or a smile.

An easy, affordable solution has been to take photos of the couple at the venue. While they are often beautiful, these tend to focus on "created" moments, leaving little room for natural spontaneity that really captures the essence of the occasion.

In addition, emotional and physical fatigue can affect the energy levels of the bride and the groom (also the photographer!) impacting the quality of the photographs. Time constraints may compromise quality; the pressure to please family and guests can also detract from the moment.

In contrast, a post-wedding photoshoot allows couples to slow down and focus on what truly matters: each other! It allows them to cherish the experience without the pressures of a packed schedule.

The shift from the busy wedding day to the peace of a post-wedding shoot can offer a deeper level of connection — both physically and emotionally. One may find themselves able to capture and share intimate moments that might have otherwise been lost in the wedding hullabaloo.

They also give opportunity for the couple to do things differently. Wear the wedding attire differently, opt for a casual look, or try a completely different location than the wedding venue like a nearby park or a scenic nature reserve. Whether one is looking for soft, intimate portraits or a playful, fun vibe, a wide range of creative possibilities can open up.

The "wedding photo" of my parents is not just about the attire or the occasion; it is about the feeling of connecting without any distractions. Some 54 years later, the image is a strong reminder that while a wedding day is filled with beautiful, fleeting instances, a post-wedding photoshoot offers the chance to preserve and celebrate moments in a purer, more personal form.

It is always important to remember that the magic of a wedding does not have to end with the reception. There's always more love to capture, more moments to treasure, and more ways to preserve them for posterity.

Photo: Adnan Rahman

Model: Abdullah Al Mahfuz, Jessia

Styling: Sonia Yeasmin Isha

Wardrobe: ATTIRE IDYLL (female model), Rulmaker (male model)

Jewellery: ZEVER By Arohye

Makeup: Sumon Rahat & Team

Set: Eskay Decor by Saimul Karim