Experiencing a Bridal Photoshoot Tradition in Pyongyang

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A woman in a vintage-style lace dress stands amidst an autumnal landscape. The image is divided into three panels, reminiscent of a triptych. She has dark hair styled elegantly, and gazes softly at the camera. The ground is covered with fallen orange and yellow leaves, and trees with matching foliage line the path. The scene has a nostalgic, warm tone, enhanced by the soft, diffused lighting typical of a late afternoon. The photo has a slightly aged appearance, with noticeable edges and corners similar to vintage photographs.

Dear Best Friend,

Today, I became a bride! Well… not really. But for a few hours, I got to feel like one.

You see, in Pyongyang, not everyone can afford a real wedding. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have wedding photos! A friend of mine works at a studio, and she let me borrow a dress for the afternoon. I posed in a beautiful park, smiling like I was about to marry the love of my life—except, of course, there was no groom, just a photographer telling me to look “happily in love.”

It was funny and a little strange, but I have to admit, the photos look incredible! Maybe one day, I’ll have a real wedding with an actual husband, a real ring, and maybe even a cake. Until then, these pictures will have to do.

Do you have wedding photos in your country if there’s no wedding? Or is this just our little tradition?

Sending love from Pyongyang,
Mi-ran