Bride and Bridesmaids toasting with champagne in bridal suite at Merlot on the water

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. 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.

Click here to view a some tips on getting rest night before your wedding.

Tips for getting ready for your wedding day
getting ready for your wedding day photos tips

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.

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.

Tips to get ready for your wedding day photos

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.

Bridesmaids holding dress up for bride
Wedding day bridal portrait before the ceremony framed with veil.

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.