How to Maximize Your Wedding Getting Ready Photos

Your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, nerves, and joy all rolled into one. While the ceremony and reception often steal the spotlight, the moments leading up to the big “I do” are just as important—not only to capture but to relish. Wedding getting ready photos document all the anticipation, laughter, and connection shared with your loved ones before the day fully unfolds. These moments are intimate, raw, and beautiful, making them, in my opinion, some of the best parts of your wedding album.

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your getting ready photos and truly enjoy this special chapter of your day.

1. Be Present in the Moment

The hours before your wedding can feel like a stressful blur as you field texts, manage last-minute details, and ensure everything is running smoothly. But here’s a secret: they don’t have to be!

This special bubble of time before you say “I do” is your chance to slow down and savor the magic. For brides, it’s about getting your hair, makeup, and nails done with your bridesmaids and close family, sipping champagne, and sharing laughter. They’re the first people to see you in your wedding dress—it’s a moment worth soaking in. For grooms, it’s a time to bond with the men who matter most in your life as you suit up, fix your hair, and share a toast.

As a photographer and videographer, I always remind my couples to take a deep breath and enjoy the energy of the people around them. These moments are fleeting, and when you see your partner at the altar, all the stress will melt away. Trust me, the magic is already happening—just be in it.

2. Slow Down and Relax

Timelines are important, but remember: your wedding doesn’t start until you’re ready. Guests are mingling and enjoying one another’s company, vendors are on task, and there’s no need to rush.

Whether you’re in a cozy bridal suite or a bustling room filled with your favorite people, take a big, deep breath. You have the space and time you need to do things at your speed. Whisper a mantra to yourself if you start to get obsessed with the time and tasks that need to be done: “This day is filled with ease, joy, and love. Everything is ready.”

Pro Tip: Build extra time into your schedule for getting ready and limit texts and calls—you can even tell people to only call you if there’s an emergency. This combo not only helps you feel relaxed and present, but it also creates space for those calm, joyful moments that make for the best wedding getting ready photos. This is your time to feel like royalty—embrace it!

3. Trust Your Team

Your wedding coordinator, vendors, and photographers are there to make sure everything runs smoothly. If you’ve put together a great team, you can rest assured that they’ve got your back.

As a photographer, my job is not just to document your day but to help you feel at ease. I’ll guide you through the process, keep an eye on the timeline, and capture the moments that matter most. This is your time to stop managing and start enjoying.

Pro Tip: Find a photographer who draws out your vision and priorities, and ensures they know what you want. Whether it’s a special moment with your mom or a detailed shot of your grandmother’s heirloom bracelet, we’re here to make sure your memories are preserved.

4. Embrace the Candid Moments

Candid photos are pure magic. They capture your natural expressions, the laughter shared with your bridesmaids, and the quiet moments of reflection. Some of the best wedding getting ready photos happen when you’re fully engaged in the moment—talking, laughing, sipping champagne, or even chatting with your photographer.

Forget about the camera and focus on the people around you. The more relaxed you are, the more authentic and beautiful your photos will be.

One of my favorite candid moments in the hours before the wedding was when a bride’s mom kept crying every time she looked at her daughter. Those photos captured so much love and emotion—they’re the kind of memories that make your wedding album truly special.

5. Redefine Perfection

Let’s talk about the myth of the “perfect” candid photo. Pinterest-worthy smiles are lovely, but the real beauty lies in the genuine emotions of the day.

Your wedding photos will capture your natural face—whether you’re laughing, listening intently, or hugging a loved one. These are the moments that matter. Years from now, you’ll look back on these photos and treasure the authenticity they hold.

The goal isn’t perfection; it’s connection.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

It’s easy to be critical of how we look in photos, especially on such an important day. But here’s the truth: your wedding day is about love, joy, and celebration—not flawless appearances.

When couples are overly conscious of the camera, their photos can end up looking posed and stiff. That’s why I work to create a relaxed atmosphere where you can let go and just be yourself.

If you doubt this advice, just think about your favorite high school photos. Chances are, they’re not the posed portraits from picture day, but the candid snapshots of you and your friends hanging out. Your wedding photos are the same. Years from now, you’ll see the beauty in every moment… especially the ones that aren’t picture-perfect.

8. Include Meaningful Details

Your getting ready photos are a chance to showcase the little details that make your wedding unique. Think about incorporating:

• Your wedding dress hanging in a beautiful spot
• Heirloom jewelry or accessories
• Personalized robes or pajamas for your wedding party
• Handwritten notes or gifts exchanged with your partner

These details add depth and personality to your photos, making them even more special.

Why Getting Ready Photos Matter

As a photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how special the “getting ready” moments can be. The laughter, the quiet tears, the final touches before you walk down the aisle—they tell a story that’s uniquely yours. My own favorite wedding photo from my big day is a candid shot of me laughing my head off—it’s not perfect, but it’s real, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

While the ceremony and reception are important, wedding getting ready photos capture the anticipation and intimacy of the day. They’re a reminder of the love and support that surrounds you as you step into this new chapter.

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and every moment deserves to be cherished. By slowing down, staying present, and embracing the candid beauty of the day, you’ll create memories—and photos—that you’ll treasure forever.

So sip that champagne, laugh with your loved ones, and let the magic unfold. Your getting ready photos will be more than just pictures—they’ll be a window into the joy, love, and connection that made your day unforgettable.

Ready to capture your story? Let’s chat about how we can make your wedding day truly one of a kind!

PS. Want to learn more about the equipment I use to shoot these amazing weddings? Check out my Gear Page to get my gear recommendations for people growing their skill in  photography & videography 📸🎥