Killer Tips for Amazing Getting Ready Photos
If you’ve booked a photographer for your whole wedding day, the story of your day will kick off with the much-loved getting-ready photos. This is where so much of the candid magic happens before the “I do’s.” Think of your crew laughing in their matching robes, your favorite human zipping up your dress, or the wedding party sharing a celebratory toast.
These first few hours are buzzing with a unique energy—a mix of excitement, nerves, and pure joy. It’s our job to capture that vibe. Here are our top five tips for getting unforgettable getting ready photos that feel totally, authentically you.
1. Stay Organized – Create Your “Calm Corner”
Okay, “stay organized” sounds like a chore, but hear us out. Think of it as creating a “calm corner.” This is your home base for all the important stuff: makeup, outfits, flowers, rings, and—most importantly—snacks. Having everything in one spot means less frantic searching for a lost earring or your vows.
When your space is tidy, it does wonders for your getting-ready photos. We can focus on the action—the laughter, the happy tears, the deep breaths—without dodging piles of clothes or empty water bottles. A less cluttered room means a more serene you, and it helps us grab what you need without interrupting the flow.
2. Keep Your Spaces Clean (ish)
Building on that last point, try to keep the general area clean. We’re not talking about a white-glove inspection-level clean, but the clearer the space, the better your photos will look. You don’t want the first shots of you in your incredible outfit to feature a background of overflowing bags and scattered shoes.
A tidy space allows us to frame the shots beautifully, making you the undeniable center of attention. Remember, it’s your day, so don’t be afraid to delegate! Ask a friend, a sibling, or a member of your wedding party to be the “Tidy Captain.” This allows you to relax and focus on yourself without worrying about everyone else’s concerns.
3. When in Doubt, Dance It Out
Getting ready for your wedding is a big deal, and it’s totally normal to feel a little overwhelmed. If the pressure starts to build, our professional advice is this: put on your favorite playlist and dance it out. Seriously. A spontaneous dance party can shake off the nerves and bring you right back to the moment.
Plus, a getting-ready dance session makes for some seriously awesome candid photos. When you look back at your gallery, you’ll remember the fun you had and the joy you felt, not the stress. Those are the moments that truly tell the story of your day.
4. Focus on YOU
You’ve done the hard work. You’ve planned, organized, and made a million decisions. Now, it’s time to let go and trust the process. Let your team handle the details. Don’t worry about your partner, the guests arriving, the caterer, or the DJ. Your only job right now is to be present and soak it all in.
If a hiccup happens, let your designated people—your wedding planner, your mom, or even us—handle it. We’re more than just photographers; we’re your all-day support crew. We’re experts at navigating the beautiful chaos of a wedding day, and we’ve got your back.
5. Do Your Thing!
This is the most important tip of all: just be you. Get your hair done, tie that tie, put on your makeup, spritz that special scent, and pop the champagne. We’re there to be flies on the wall, capturing all the tiny, in-between moments that you might otherwise forget.
Don’t sweat the small stuff, or try to over-style your getting-ready space. This isn’t a movie set; it’s your real, awesome life unfolding. Strike a balance between sticking to your timeline and going with the flow. The most authentic getting-ready photos happen when you let yourself live in the moment.
Ready for Your Close-Up?
And there you have it! Our best advice for getting amazing getting-ready photos. The main takeaway? Let everyone else do the worrying. We might be there to take pictures, but as one of the few vendors who are with you all day, we’re ready for anything.
Whether it’s finding the best light, locating rogue safety pins, or creatively keeping clutter out of the shot, we are dedicated to making your day special, not stressful. We’re here to capture your happiness, and we can’t wait to be a part of your day.
Your Rad
Wedding Photographers
We’re a down-to-earth photography duo with over ten years of experience, and we believe one thing is true for every single shoot: authentic photos happen when you feel like your best self. Whether you’re planning an epic elopement or a killer brand session, our job is to make sure you feel amazing, so your photos look just as real and awesome as you are.
Sound like your kind of vibe? We’d love to hear more about what you’re dreaming up. Let’s chat!
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