My Top Tips for Bridal Prep Photos
The moments before your ceremony are always filled with nerves and excitement. It is that time before you’ve seen your partner and it is definitely a moment that creates the beginning of your story of the day. It is a time for you to get ready with those closest to you and feel the joys and jitters of the day to come. In the rush and chaos, it is easy for things to get messy or not to stick to a timeline so I have outlined some tips below to help create bridal prep images that you will love for years to come.
1. Set out all your details
When I arrive for bridal prep, one of the first things I focus on is photographing all the gorgeous details that make your day unique. To make this process seamless, have all your bridal details gathered in one designated spot. Consider entrusting a bridesmaid with the responsibility of guiding me to these items, allowing you to concentrate on the excitement of getting ready. Here's a checklist to ensure nothing gets overlooked:
Dress
Veil
Shoes
Jewellery
Hair accessories
Engagement Ring
Wedding rings (If not with the groom)
Wedding invites/stationery
Perfume
Bouquet
Letter or card from your husband-to-be
Gifts for the girls
2. Hang your dress and keep a spot clean for your photographer
Your wedding dress is a huge part of your day and it is really lovely to be able to capture it before you put it on. To make things easier, I suggest trying to find a space like a window or wardrobe to hang your dress on so that it is ready for me to photograph when I arrive. This also means that it is hanging in a safe spot and no one has to touch or move it before you put it on. Look for a lovely clean space with lots of natural light. I also suggest choosing a pretty hanger if one is not provided by the bridal shop. Wooden or custom hangers can add a little touch of luxury to these shots.
3. Keep things tidy
While tidying up might be the last thing on your mind, a clutter-free environment ensures that your photos will look polished and timeless. Delegate the task of maintaining order to a trusted bridesmaid or family member, allowing you to focus on the joyous moments unfolding.
4. Relax and enjoy this time
Amidst the rush, excitement and jitters, make sure you take the time to savour the excitement with your bridesmaids. Share stories, have a glass of champagne, and let me document these precious moments. Relaxed and genuine interactions often result in the most memorable photographs.
5. Get in your dress an hour before you have to leave for the ceremony
Give yourself ample time to slip into your wedding dress, and I suggest an hour before you need to depart for the ceremony. This allows me to also capture you getting in your dress, first looks with parents or bridesmaids and photograph some bridal portraits. The 'big reveal' moments are some of the most heartwarming, capturing the reactions of your friends and family as they see you for the first time. This also gives me time to head out to the ceremony before your arrival.
6. Touch Ups
Before leaving for the ceremony, check in with your makeup artist for any necessary touch-ups. This step ensures you look flawless as you step into the next chapter of your life.
Investing some time into planning and organising your morning will not only allow for you to have some elevated bridal prep photos but it will also allow for you to have a more relaxed morning. So follow these tips but also remember that the day will unfold and sometimes the best photos come from those unpredictable moments.
