Getting-Ready Photos: Simple Tips for a Calm, Pretty Morning
Practical tips for getting-ready photos: window light, tidy rooms, the dress hung up, and time to breathe.
The lacing-up moment is always a favourite.
Getting ready is where the day starts to feel real: nerves, laughs, your people around you. A few simple choices make these photos so much better.
Pick a room with a big window
Window light is the best getting-ready light. It's soft and flattering. If you can, choose the room with the biggest window and get ready near it.
Clear the clutter
Before I arrive, move the bags, cups and takeout boxes to one corner. Ten minutes of tidying means every photo looks calmer.
Have the dress ready to hang
Keep the dress on a nice hanger, not the plastic one from the shop. A dress hanging in window light is one of my favourite photos of the morning.
Keep the details together
Rings, shoes, jewellery, the invitation, the perfume. Put them in one box so I can photograph them while you finish hair and makeup.
Leave room for the lacing-up moment
Getting into the dress is a big moment, and it's usually emotional for whoever helps. Build in time so it isn't rushed.
Build in buffer time
Hair and makeup almost always run a little long. Plan for that and your morning stays relaxed. My wedding day timeline guide shows how to fit it all in.
Don't worry about posing
You don't need to do anything special. I'll catch the real moments, give a little guidance when it helps, and then get out of the way.
Want me there from the start? Signature ($2,400, up to 8 hours) and Full Day ($3,200, up to 10 hours) leave plenty of time for the morning. See pricing or check my date.
