When you’re surrounded by all your girls, you’ll definitely want your photographer there to capture all the behind-the-scenes memories you’ll make while you’re getting ready. Choosing to have getting ready photos are important for so many reasons. It’s a chance for your photographer to capture important details, such as your jewelry, your wardrobe, hair and makeup, and having fun with your closest confidants. It can also be helpful for you to get used to having the camera on you throughout the day. This extended exposure may help you feel more comfortable.
So how do you make the most of your getting ready photos?
Here are a few things that you can do to help ensure that your getting ready photos are cherished forever.
Let There Be Light
The first thing I do when entering a room is check out the light. A room with large windows and plenty of natural light will make your photos one hundred times better. If it’s not possible to get ready in a space with natural light, ask to see if there is an outdoor space that the photographer can use to capture a few important details.
In my communication with the bride and groom prior to their wedding day I will often remind them to try and keep their suits clutter-free where possible. Easy said than done and something you’ll probably forget on the day, but a clean and tidy room makes photos look elegant! Check out a previous blog post I wrote about delegating this type of job to someone in your bridal party.
Preparation Is Key
Save your photographer some time and get all the details you’d like photographed together in one spot. I always ask my bride to make a list of all the details she’d like me to capture. That way, they won’t forget a thing and it helps me shoot everything they’d like. This includes everything from jewelry and shoes to your pretty dress hangers and perfume. Personally, I like to have the guy’s things handy too. So, ensure his cufflinks, socks, bow ties etc. are also easily accessible.
Don’t Forget The Guys!
They probably aren’t bothered about having their photos taken whilst getting ready. Most of the guys I’ve worked with are chilling with their friends, having a drink and perhaps watching sport on the TV. However, it’s still important to capture those special moments with them. I always ask that the groomsmen be fully dressed except for the groom himself. Providing he is wearing his pants and has an unbuttoned shirt when I arrive, it allows me to get a few getting ready shots of him. I like a few portraits of the groom alone and with his Best Man also.
Finally, the Getting Ready shots are as much about the details as they are about me capturing your most candid moments. Relax, enjoy and let your photographer do what they do best. You’ll appreciate the result!