Wedding Tip | Getting Ready Photos

There’s a point in the wedding day where nerves are flying and excitement is creeping in. Before the ceremony, butterflies flutter all around your tummy as you prepare to marry the love of your life. This is a time that is so special for me to capture. I love being able to document those candid moments when you hug your mother after she buttons your wedding gown, or the tears you might shed as you read a letter from your groom. Getting ready photos are so important, so here are some tips to make them seamlessly easy.

Set all of the details aside.

When I arrive on your wedding day, the first thing on the timeline will be detail photos. I always tell my brides ahead of time that having their details gathered together is extremely helpful. Anything you are planning on having photographed should be easily accessible for your photographer. I suggest keeping these together in a shoebox, or large bag. It’s also nice to designate someone to be in charge of these details because it is so easy to forget! By having your details ready to go, you are able to spend more time relaxing with your ladies as you prepare for the big moment!

Keep it clean.

When your photographer begins to take photos of you and your ladies hanging out and getting ready, it’s important that the area be clean. Clutter and messes in the background of your photos can be very distracting. In addition, this takes away from the clean, cohesive look of your portraits throughout the day. It’s always a good idea to designate someone to take care of these tasks. Assigning this responsibility to someone else is the perfect way to make sure it gets done without adding stress to you.

Stick to the Timeline.

I can not stress enough how important the wedding day timeline is! Whether you, your photographer, or your coordinator designs the timeline, it’s one of the most important things in keeping your wedding day stress-free. It’s easy to get off schedule when you get caught up in the moment – whether you’re talking to a friend you haven’t seen in years or you’re enjoying bubbly with your ladies. Getting off schedule can back up everything, especially portrait time. The best way to stay on track is to (once again!) designate someone to keep you updated on the time.

Do something special.

Some of the most beautiful getting ready portraits are those that are capturing something special. The mother of the bride is most often photographed putting the dress on, but consider doing something special for dad too, such as putting on his boutonniere or planning a first look with him. Other special moments that are great for getting ready portraits are first looks with bridesmaids, toasts with the wedding party, a family prayer, among many more. Keep in mind, you don’t HAVE to do any of these, but it’s always nice to have a special moment with the ones you love most.

Keep your people nearby.

Let’s face it – the wedding day can be extremely busy and stressful. Because of this, your favorite people can miss the most important moments. If your sister is having to run around to set up decor, she might miss popping bubbly or a first look with your ladies. Because of this, I strongly recommend hiring a wedding planner (or at minimum a day of coordinator). They are able to do these errands and all of the running around. This will assure that your family and friends won’t miss those special moments.