How to Plan for Amazing Getting Ready Photos // Tips for Clients

Getting ready wedding photos can provide some amazing and intimate moments before the big moments of your day begin. I encourage my couples to set aside some time for photography to capture those moments.  When telling the story of your day in an album, slideshow or even a blogpost it’s always great to start with the little details, moments of the girls laughing together, the boys trying to figure out how to tie a tie and mom helping with that heirloom necklace. It helps introduce your story that two individuals are coming together surrounded by their loved ones. It also helps me as the photographer get to know who everyone is that will be important for me to photograph. And it helps ensure we stay on time as well as I will be there to help usher along to stay on track.

To help me create the most beautiful getting ready photos possible, I want to share with you some of my top tips I’ve learned over the years.

 

1. Be completely ready when I arrive
Plan for me to arrive once all the girls hair and makeup is done. I mean completely done! You don’t want photos with mascara on one eye and not the other. And no one especially wants photos of putting on foundation!

2. Gather all your details
Have all your special details and goodies gathered in a bag for me ready to photograph. Your shoes, invitations, rings (including his), heirloom jewelry, bouquet and any other special details. I’ll introduce myself to everyone first and give a 10 minute warning and then borrow all those goodies and get your detail photos!

3. Have a Pretty Hanger
Have a pretty hanger for your dress and tags clipped off! A pretty hanger simply makes that dress hanging shot look polished. And clipping the tags in advance saves me time from having to find scissors or try to hide it while taking photos and allows for me to spend more time taking photos.

4. Clear a window
Keep a window clear. It’s always best to take photos of your details in beautiful light and also have you put your dress on in a tidy and well lit space! So when your ladies arrive, have a designated location for them to put their things so the room doesn’t become too much of a disaster and we have a beautiful spot to photograph you putting on your dress.

5. Don’t forget mom
Make sure mom knows when to be fully ready so she looks her best and can be there to zip you up, clasp that necklace and take a few shots before her daughter gets married.

I could probably go on for days with tips but I will stop there as those are my most important and common reminders! And chances are, if you are my bride I’ll remind you of all of these again!  Continue scrolling for some more wedding getting ready inspiration below.