Wedding Photography Series: Part 4 of 10
The hours a bride spends getting ready on her wedding day are filled with anticipation and excitement. Each moment–laughter with your bridesmaids, a hug from your mom, the careful final touches of your makeup–deserve to be thoughtfully documented.
As an experienced luxury wedding photographer, I’ve learned how to capture these fleeting moments in a way that tells a story and reflects your style. Here are six essential tips to ensure your “getting ready” photos are as stunning as the memories themselves.
1) Choose a Space with Natural Light
Nothing compares to the beauty of natural light. A room with large windows, a balcony or even access to an outdoor area can make all the difference in your photos. Soft, diffused daylight flatters the skin and creates a clean and timeless look. If you are able, select a getting-ready space that has ample window light and neutral-colored walls. This sets the stage for beautiful and romantic photos.
The light filtering through the window highlights the elegance of L’s veil and gown.
Standing next to a window, the details of a bride's wedding gown are on full display.
Full of natural light, C's getting ready room was perfect for bridal photos.
Highlighting a bride's silhouette is one of my favorite photos to take on a wedding day.
R's stunning beauty was captured in the soft light as she prepared for her wedding day.
Soft light filters through lace creating stunning portraits.
In beautiful light, J's flowers are highlighted.
2) Bridal Preparations
There is something truly special about the elegance of a bride getting ready. I love working alongside your hair and makeup team to capture the final touches–whether it’s a delicate swipe of lip-gloss or a last touch of powder.
These moments showcase the care and anticipation leading up to the ceremony, and they often become some of the most beloved photos in your wedding gallery.
C's mom helps her put on her heirloom jewelry.
Photographing the final touches of a bride's makeup help tell the story of the day.
E looked stunning her hair stylist placed her veil.
The details of a bride putting on her jewelry showcase her beauty.
M added a final touch of lipstick before meeting her groom for photos.
J’s jewelry was beautiful, and the photos are a reminder of the simplicity found in the details.
AH's captivating beauty is seen as her makeup artist finished her work.
3) Matching Robes or PJ’s
While not required, having your bridal party wear coordinated robes or pajamas creates a sense of cohesion and style. These matching outfits look beautiful in group shots and add a touch of elegance if your getting ready photos.
I’ll guide you through posed photos with your bridesmaids, but I will also be in the background capturing candid moments: a spontaneous dance party, hugs, laughter and all the in-between gestures that reveal the depth of your friendships.
H and her bridesmaids celebrated together leading up to the ceremony.
Laughter and joy were captured in this candid photo of R and her bridesmaids.
There is joy in these photos as bride’s celebrating with their bridesmaids.
R’s bridesmaids were from different phases of her life and their and friendship was lovely to capture.
AK and her bridesmaids were beautiful in their matching PJ’s.
Celebrating was a priority or M and her bridesmaids.
South Carolina’s landscape is the perfect background for AH and her bridal party.
4) Keep the Space Clutter Free
A tidy space allows the beauty of the moment to shine though. Stray bags, food containers, and phones can distract from the emotion and elegance of the photos.
I recommend designating a “drop zone”–a corner or area of the room for everyone to place their belongings. Another tip is to assign a bridesmaid or family member to keep things tidy as the morning goes on. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes when it’s time to start taking photos.
M's dog McQueen was a part of her big day.
H’s bridal party was in awe of her beauty.
AH’s flower girl has a quiet conversation with mom.
There is a simple beauty seen here as L’s mom and sister admire her gown.
5) Bridal Portraits
After all the preparation, it’s time for one of the most magical parts of the day: your bridal portraits. I take time to photography you in your gown, capturing both wide, dramatic shots and close-ups that highlight the intricate details of your dress, jewelry, flowers and hair.
These portraits are designed to make you feel confident, elegant and celebrated. Whether you are standing by a window or stepping outside in the soft light, these images will reflect the joy and transformation of the day.
The details on M's dress are highlighted in the natural light.
Savannah is a beautiful city and the perfect backdrop for bridal portraits.
E’s gown was beautiful, and her cathedral veil added elegance to the overall look.
C’s stunning ring and beautiful gown were the focus for this bridal portrait.
Each detail of a bride’s look is important and captured during bridal portraits.
Details are beautiful and in these photos each gown is showcased.
Bridal portraits are a way to highlight the bride and the location of her wedding.
6) Build in Extra Time–For the Moments that Matter
Weddings are beautiful, but they rarely run perfectly on schedule. From dress mishaps to emotional gift exchanges, some of the most unforgettable moments happen in the unexpected.
By building in a little butter time during your getting ready hours, you allow space for things to unfold naturally. Whether you are reading a letter from your soon-to-be spouse, sharing a toast with your bridesmaids or a shared secret with your mom, these candid moments often become your most treasured photos.
R and her parents are captured in an intimate moment before the ceremony.
J sent a heartfelt gift and letter to C leading up to their ceremony.
The excitement of E’s bridesmaids when they saw her is felt in this photo.
McQueen has been a part of M's life since he was a puppy, so it was fitting for him to be a part of her wedding day as well.
C’s bridesmaids help her with her gown as they walk to the ceremony.
Intimate moments between the bride and her mother are beautiful to capture.
L’s bridesmaids are photographed in this candid moment.
Moments like these share the joy and excitement that is always present on a wedding day.
Final Thoughts
The getting-ready portion of your wedding day isn’t just about hair and makeup–it’s about connection, anticipation and celebration. Documenting these moments is the first chapter of your love story.
If you are planning your wedding, I would love to talk with you about capturing photos that reflect these meaningful moments. You can contact me here.
See more weddings on the blog here.
