3 Tips for Better Getting Ready Photos

Tips for Better Getting Ready Photos

My getting ready photos are some of my favorite photos from my entire wedding day, and no they didn’t have my husband in them.  But – they’re something that is really quite sacred about them in a way.  See, they’re those last moments where you get butterflies in your stomach where you finally get to put your entire look together.  Your hair & makeup are done, your dress is just waiting and there is your mama tearing up as she buttons those pearls on the back of your gown.  There isn’t much better!  BUT, let me tell you that my getting ready photos aren’t the prettiest.  Not because my awesome photographer didn’t do a good job, no – it was because the area I chose to get ready in wasn’t the best.  So, here are 3 tips for better getting ready photos so that you have gorgeous ones to love for a lifetime!

Let your photographer choose the space.

Trust me on this one.  On the wedding day there is a lot going on, and you might be getting ready in the darkest corner of your beloved family church basement or maybe you’re getting ready in a gorgeous glowing hotel suite (I have a favorite Chippewa Valley hotel room….).  But, the key is to trust your photographer when they tell you that the light is either good, or not – and let them take you where the light is good.  You will thank yourself later.

Keep the space clean!

If I could only choose one tip to leave on this post, this would be it.  It’s HUGE.  Most days when I walk into the space where the bride & bridesmaids are getting ready it looks like I walked into the aftermath of a frat party – for real.  So, just give your bridesmaids a friendly reminder that you want gorgeous getting ready photos, so corral all the water bottles, bags, bras, suitcases, etc. either to a corner or someone else’s room.

Bring the pretties.

All of the pretty detail & getting ready shots you find on Pinterest don’t happen on accident.  They’re meticulously styled!  A key to making that happen is making sure that you bring all of those pretty little details – so you might wonder where to even start – well here’s a small list of things you can bring to help with those photos!

• Your entire invitation suite – including all envelopes & loose stamps.
• A soft & delicate ribbon that matches your wedding colors.
• Heirlooms you are carrying or want to include – your grandma’s pearl necklace, a brooch or earrings.
• The jewelry you’re wearing on your wedding day.
• Your shoes, veil & any other extra items you’re wearing.
• Have your florist leave extra blooms and greenery to style with.
• A pretty hanger for your dress.
• Your dress or a bridesmaid dress – sometimes I use them to style with, too!
• ….the list goes on!
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Lastly, make sure that you’re relaxed and ready to enjoy this part of the day because soon you’ll be walking down the aisle to see your future husband!

I can’t wait to document your day – contact me for more information about my availability.