Before we dive in, I want to tell you that your photographer should be able to capture beautiful images on your wedding day no matter the situation! They should be able to work well in any lighting situation and any timeline crunch! These tips and tricks are simply little changes that can be made for an ideal photography-friendly wedding day.
Recommended Allocated Time: 40 minutes
First of all, getting ready photos are pictures with you + your mom + your bridesmaids before the day really kicks off. If you have bridesmaids robes, I'll photograph you all in those. And we'll photograph you (your mom usually helps) getting into your wedding dress :)
On a wedding day, I usually arrive after hair&makeup is completed and get started on detail photos. If I arrive as the final hair/makeup touches are being placed, I'll grab a quick shot of that. Getting ready photos are taken after hair and makeup are done.
1. Look for Windows
Most brides and grooms get ready indoors. But even when you're inside, the most flattering light will still be natural sunlight! It's just a warm golden that makes people glow.
That is why when I photograph getting ready photos, I'll open every possible window and flip off all the light switches. You can make lighting even more dreamy if you choose to get ready in a room with lots of windows and open areas.
2. Look for Clean backgrounds
Getting ready rooms typically have picture frames on the walls and other background items that make a photo more busy and detract from the photo's focus. If I can remove art of from the walls and hide it, I will! Having clean backgrounds will make your photos look more timeless and elegant.
It'll likely be a messy havoc in your getting ready room. But we'll clear off a corner of the room to look clean for photos :)
3. Have your mom and your bridesmaids get dressed first!
Your mom and bridesmaids will likely be in your getting ready photos. You’ll want to be sure they are dressed before you are, so they look picture perfect while helping you prepare!
4. Slow down for this
Getting ready with your girls is one of the best parts of your wedding day! Try to leave more time here than you are expecting that you’ll need. I promise you’d rather be able to slow down and enjoy this time with your friends than feel rushed to get to the ceremony.
This is the 2nd of a 9 Part Series: What Brides Should Know About...
1. What Brides Should Know About Detail Shots
2. What Brides Should Know About Getting Ready
3. What Brides Should Know About First Looks
4. What Brides Should Know About the Ceremony
5. What Brides Should Know About Family Photos
6. What Brides Should Know About the Bridal Party
7. What Brides Should Know About Bride & Groom Portraits
8. What Brides Should Know About the Reception
9. What Brides Should Know About Exits
