Why Your Wedding Getting Ready Photos Matter More Than You Think
You’ve probably seen those dreamy, emotional photos of brides slipping into their dresses, grooms sharing a laugh with their best man, or a mother wiping away tears as she pins a boutonniere. These “getting ready” moments aren’t just about looking pretty—they capture the anticipation, love, and raw emotions that make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
As wedding photographers, we’ve seen firsthand how these moments set the tone for the entire day. Let’s dive into why wedding getting ready photos are a must-have and how to make the most of them.
What are Wedding getting ready photos?
These are the photos taken before the ceremony when the couple and their wedding parties are preparing for the big day. It’s not just about hair and makeup; it’s about the hugs, the nervous laughter, the deep breaths, and the quiet moments of reflection.
The Emotional Power of Wedding Getting Ready Photos
Wedding days are fast-paced, and before you know it, you’re saying “I do.” But the morning? That’s when the magic begins. Here’s why these wedding getting ready photos deserve a special place in your album:
- Capturing the Anticipation – The nervous excitement, the deep breaths before stepping into your dress or suit—these emotions are priceless.
- Authentic Connections – Your parents, siblings, and best friends are by your side. These moments show the love and support surrounding you.
- First Look with Loved Ones – Whether it’s a teary-eyed dad seeing his daughter in her dress or a best man giving a reassuring pat on the back, these are once-in-a-lifetime moments.
- The Beauty of Candid Moments – Unlike posed wedding portraits, getting ready photos capture genuine reactions and emotions.
- Storytelling Through Details – From your wedding dress hanging by the window to your grandmother’s necklace in your hands—these details tell your unique love story.
How to Make the Most of Your Wedding Getting Ready Photos
1. When choosing a room, look for one that is spacious and well-lit.
When choosing a room, be it a hotel, Airbnb or at the venue, choose the one that has enough space to walk around. Especially when the makeup is done in the same room, you will need to have space for everyone to walk around. If you are getting ready in a hotel room, request a bigger room. A clutter-free space also helps keep the focus on you, not a pile of bags in the background.
2. Have Your Details Ready
Your wedding photographer will want to capture items that make your day unique & special for you.
Have these ready:
- Special heirlooms
- Wedding dress/suit
- Shoes
- Jewelry
- Perfume/cologne
- Invitation suite
3. Coordinate Outfits for Your Wedding Party
Matching robes, silk pajamas, or stylish suits? Yes, please! Not only do they look great in photos, but they add a cohesive and polished feel to your getting-ready photos.
4. Keep the Room Clean & Uncluttered
A tidy space makes a huge difference. Assign someone to do a quick cleanup before the wedding photographer arrives to keep distractions out of your wedding photos.
5. Plan a First Look with Parents, grand parents or your wedding party
This is one of the most emotional moments of the day. Whether it’s a reveal to your mom, dad, grandparents or wedding party, those first reactions are golden.
6. Include a Meaningful Moment
Take a few minutes to write a letter to your partner, read a heartfelt note, or have a quick prayer or toast with your loved ones. These small moments create big emotions.
7. Stay Present & Enjoy the Moment
Most importantly? Breathe. Take in the laughter, the happy tears, and the people who love you. These moments will be gone in a flash, but your photos will keep them alive forever.
FAQs About Wedding Getting Ready Photos
How much time should we set aside for getting ready photos?
Ideally, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives your wedding photographer time to capture details, candids, and the final touches before you head out.
Who should be present during getting ready photos?
Anyone you want to be part of the moment! Usually, it’s your wedding party, close family, and anyone helping you get dressed.
Should the groom have getting ready photos too?
Absolutely! The groom’s side has just as many emotional and fun moments—whether it’s sharing drinks & gifts with the groomsmen, adjusting a tie before walking down the aisle or just having a great time with the people that mean everything for him.
What if my getting ready space isn’t photogenic?
Talk to your wedding photographer. We can find creative angles, move distractions, or even suggest alternative locations for those first-look moments.
Do I need 2 photographers for getting ready photos?
If you and your partner are getting ready in different locations, having 2 photographers ensures you both have your moments beautifully captured. With us as Wedding photographers, we don’t have main photographer or second photographer concept. You get 2 photographers who have been working 100+ weddings together that make a great team for getting ready photos.
How can I relax during getting ready photos?
Surround yourself with people who make you feel calm and happy. Play your favorite music, take deep breaths, and trust your photographer—we’ll guide you through it!
Your wedding day is a story—a beautiful, emotional, once-in-a-lifetime story. And it starts the moment you wake up, surrounded by the people who love you most. Wedding getting ready photos aren’t just about looking good; they’re about feeling the love, the excitement, and the joy that makes your wedding day so special.
So take your time, soak in every moment, and let us capture the magic of your day from the very start.
Edmonton Wedding Photographers | Wedding Photographers Banff | Calgary Wedding Photographers | Wedding Photography Canmore
Lastly, here are a few more articles that should help you with wedding planning.
Wedding Checklist to keep your wedding planning organized.
How to plan a wedding once engaged?
5 tips on how to find a wedding photographer
A detailed guide to creating a perfect timeline for your Wedding day
Did we miss mentioning something here.. Let us know in the comments.
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