In my career as a wedding photographer, I have shot over 700 weddings. Looking back, probably 25% of my wedding couples have chosen to do the “getting ready” in-room photos before the ceremony. I wish 100% of my wedding couples would do this! These getting ready in-room photos are some of my favorites to photograph.

”Getting Ready” Wedding Photos

Anticipation shots produce the most flawless photos. At that point of the day, your hair and makeup are still perfect. There haven’t been any tears to run your eye makeup and there haven’t been any hugs to smudge your foundation. The wind has not swept that perfectly styled hair out of place, and everyone still loves their gorgeous shoes! Plus, there are no friends or family members vying for the bride’s attention.

The getting ready in-room photos are a little bit quieter. Without the stress of other people and without the outside elements to compete with, these early moments filled with excitement and anticipation are so easy to photograph.

Getting ready photos gives the chance for the wedding photographer to capture all the meticulously planned details of the wedding day. The shoes, the jewelry, the invitations, the rings— all the tiny details that together, give the wedding a style and personality all its own.

Getting ready photos also give the wedding photographer a chance to take in your wedding before the wedding... Wedding photographers can learn your best angles, learn how your bride’s dress hangs, learn important details, and get to know you a little bit better. I love being there early in the morning to calm nerves, ease anxiety and help my brides get ready for the day. Getting these photographs early in the morning can make all the other shots of the day so much better!

Photos Taken During the “Getting Ready” Wedding Photos

Here is the way I handle these anticipation shots before the wedding. Sometimes, I only go to the bride’s room. If there are two brides, I go to both brides’ separate rooms. In a bride and groom situation — and if their rooms are near each other, then I like to visit both rooms.

Here is a list of the photographs I like to try to take in these getting ready images:

• Bride’s gown

• Bride’s detail shots

• Hair and Makeup Preparation

• Bride as she prepares for the day

• Groom’s headshot

• Groom’s details

• Groom with each of his groomsmen

• Groom with parents (when present)

• Bride getting dressed

• Bride’s headshot

• Bridal portraits

• Bride with her bridesmaids

• Bride with her bridal party on the way to the ceremony site.

Getting these photographs takes time during the morning. Please allow for it! I promise, these will be some of your favorite photographs.

Next Thursday, I'll post my top EIGHT Tips on Getting Ready for Your "Getting Ready" Photos.

Until then,

Ranae @ EMotion Galleries