Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
As a photographer, I understand the importance of capturing every special moment of your big day.
Here is a guide to help you prepare for your getting ready wedding day photos
Tip 1
Schedule Hair and Makeup Appointments
Book hair and makeup appointments well in advance. Consider doing a trial run before the wedding day to ensure that the look you desire is achieved.
Your engagement session is a perfect day for your trial run on your hair and makeup. You’ll be able to see how it photographs and if you are comfortable with the look.
Some makeup artist will want you to be the last one to get your makeup finished, but it’s best if you go second to last in case they get behind you won’t be late.
On the wedding day, make sure to give yourself enough time to get ready.
Tip 2
Get Plenty of Rest
Getting a good night’s sleep before your wedding day is important. Being well-rested will help you look and feel your best, and it will also help reduce any stress or anxiety you may feel.
Getting a good night’s sleep before your wedding day is important. Being well-rested will help you look and feel your best, and it will also help reduce any stress or anxiety you may feel. Here’s a few tips to get the best rest.
1. Make a list
You’re doing this already in your mind, so why not put it on paper? Writing it down takes the responsibility off of your brain and puts it on paper, giving your poor head a break and the opportunity to relax. Keep a pen a paper by your bed. Pen and paper, not your phone. Even if you open your phone to jot down notes, you’ll likely end up getting distracted.
2. Do Not Disturb
Speaking of your phone, either turn it off or silence notifications. I like the Do Not Disturb feature on mine. In addition, try to limit night phone activity to before you get in bed. I know we all look at our phones in bed, but this week, break up the cycle to get to sleep faster.
3. Breathe
One of the easiest things you can do when you’re lying down is breathe. I use this trick when I am meditating and it allows for the stress to melt away and to focus on your breath. Simply take three, deep breathes in a row, holding them at the top, and slowly exhaling. This will send messages to your brain that it’s time for a snooze.
Tip 3
Choose a Getting-Ready Location
Select a location that is spacious and has plenty of natural light. It could be a hotel room or a private home. A tidy and uncluttered space will create a beautiful backdrop for your photos.
You’ll want to pick a place where you feel calm and relaxed.
Also consider the distance to the ceremony location.
Don’t rule out Airbnbs for a great spot to get ready.
You’ll also want a location with plenty of room, seating and a full length mirror.
Give this decision some extra thought as it can make a huge difference in your photos.
Tip 4
Keep the Space Tidy
Now this goes along with tip 3 but it is a good one. Make sure that the space is neat and tidy.
This includes removing any clutter or personal items that may distract your photos.
The cleaner the area, the more you, your wedding dress, and your friends and family will stand out.
Tip 5
Have All Your Accessories Ready
Lay out your accessories, such as shoes, jewelry, veil, and bouquet, in a designated area. This will make it easy for the photographer to capture them in detail.
Photographing your details including your wedding dress is one the first things we do so when you are ready to get dressed your details are all set.
Tip 6
Get Dressed Last
Wait until after hair and makeup are complete before getting dressed. Also let your Mother, Maid of honor and bridesmaids get dressed before you start to put on your wedding dress.
This will ensure that your dress stays clean and wrinkle-free and whoever is helping you with your dress is already in their dresses.
Tip 7
Allow time for photos
Plan to spend at least an hour and half getting ready so your photographer has plenty of time to capture all the special moments. When your hair and makeup is freshly completed and you slipped on your wedding dress is the perfect time for some wedding day portraits. So make sure to leave a little time after you put on your dress and when you need to leave for the ceremony.
Consider a first-look session with your groom, which can add a personal and intimate touch to your photos.
I have created a page here that discusses the pros and cons of having a first look.
Tip 8
Enjoy the Moment
Remember to relax and enjoy the experience.
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and the getting-ready process can be a fun and memorable part of the day.
Trust your photographer to capture every special moment, and let your personality shine through in your photos.
