How to Prepare for Your Wedding Day
How to Prepare for Your Wedding Day: A Photographer’s Perspective
Your wedding day is almost here! All those months (or even years) of planning, decision-making, and excitement are about to pay off. Now, it’s all about making sure everything runs smoothly so you can soak in the day and truly enjoy it. From a photographer’s perspective, preparation isn’t just about logistics - it’s about setting the stage for incredible moments and beautiful, natural photos that truly tell your story. So, let’s walk through how to prep for your wedding day in a way that keeps things relaxed, fun, and stress-free.
The Night Before: Set Yourself Up for a Relaxed Morning
It’s totally normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. The key is to set yourself up for a great morning so you’re not scrambling last minute.
Get Some Sleep (or at Least Try To!) - Your body and mind will thank you for a solid night’s rest. If nerves make sleeping tricky, try a calming tea, meditation, or a warm bath to wind down.
Lay Out Your Essentials - Organise everything you’ll need in one spot: dress/suit, shoes, accessories, rings, invitation suite, perfume/cologne - basically anything you’d love to have in your ‘getting ready’ photos. Having everything prepped will save you from last-minute stress.
Stay Hydrated & Eat Well - A well-balanced meal and lots of water will keep you energised. Avoid anything too salty or heavy that could make you feel sluggish the next morning.
Set the Mood - Create a calming atmosphere with your favourite playlist, a scented candle, or a few minutes of journalling. This is your time to reflect and enjoy the final moments before your big day.
The Morning Of: A Calm & Picture-Perfect Start
The getting-ready part of the day is full of excitement, and it’s also when your photographer starts capturing all those little, meaningful moments.
Pick a Well-Lit Space - Natural light makes for the dreamiest photos. If possible, get ready in a room with big windows - it makes all the difference for soft, flattering lighting.
Keep the Space Tidy - A clutter-free space means clean, polished photos. Designate a specific area for personal belongings so they don’t end up in every shot.
Wear Something Cute & Comfortable - A silky robe, a cosy set, or a button-down shirt works great (and won’t mess up your hair and makeup when changing). Bonus points if it coordinates with your wedding colours for a cohesive look in your photos.
Allow Extra Time - Hair and makeup sometimes take longer than expected, so add some buffer time. This ensures no one feels rushed, and you can enjoy a more relaxed start to the day.
Enjoy the Moment - Laugh with your friends, sip your coffee (or Prosecco), and take it all in. These quiet moments before the ceremony are just as special as the big ones.
The Reveal: That Special First Moment
A reveal is a beautiful, emotional moment when someone special - often a father, a family member, or the bridal party - sees the bride for the first time in her wedding attire. It’s a chance for genuine, heartfelt reactions that make for some of the most treasured photos of the day.
How to make it even more special:
Choose a Location - Whether it’s at home, in a hotel suite, or at the venue, pick a space that enhances the emotion of the moment. I can always help you with that.
Let Reactions Unfold Naturally - No need to force anything. Whether there are happy tears, bursts of laughter, or big hugs, the best photos come from real emotions.
Take Your Time - This moment isn’t just about the photos - it’s about soaking in the love and excitement. Take a deep breath and enjoy it.
Want to add a personal touch? Exchange letters, share a toast, or give a gift to make the moment even more meaningful.
The Ceremony: Picture-Perfect Moments
Your ceremony is where the magic happens, and a little planning will help it look just as stunning in photos as it does in real life.
Think About the Lighting - Outdoor ceremonies are best in the late afternoon when the light is softer. If your ceremony is earlier, consider shaded areas for more flattering lighting.
Unplugged Ceremony? - Encouraging guests to put their phones away means no screens blocking the aisle shots and helps everyone stay present.
Take It Slow - Walk deliberately down the aisle, hold that first kiss for an extra second, and let each moment sink in.
Check Your Setup - Ensure florals, décor, and the officiant’s placement don’t obstruct important shots. Your photographer will help guide you on this!
Have a Meaningful Exit Plan - Whether it’s a confetti toss, bubbles, or a petal shower, planning an exit that reflects your personality will create a visually spectacular moment.
Consider Your Vows & Expressions - Speak clearly, project your voice, and don’t rush through your vows. Expressing emotion naturally will help create beautiful, heartfelt images.
Formal Photographs: Organising Group Shots with Ease
Formal group photos are an essential part of any wedding, but they can be time-consuming without a plan. To make this process smooth and stress-free:
Pre-Selected List - I will send you a proposed list of formal photos in advance so we can tailor it to your preferences.
Delegating Helpers - To speed things up, assign two reliable people (such as a family member or member of the bridal party) to help gather individuals for each group photo.
Keeping It Efficient - We’ll start with the largest groups and work down to smaller ones so guests can get back to enjoying the celebration.
By planning ahead and keeping things organised, I can ensure your formal photos are seamless and enjoyable.
Golden Hour Magic: Your Best Couple Portraits
Golden hour - the dreamy hour before sunset - is hands down the best time for romantic, glowy portraits.
Plan a Quick Escape - Sneak away for 15 minutes during this time for your most stunning, intimate photos.
Trust Your Photographer - Let me guide you to the best light and locations for breathtaking images.
Savour the Moment - This might be one of the few quiet moments you get together all day - breathe it in and enjoy every second.
Evening Reception: Keeping the Fun & Candid Moments Flowing
The reception is all about letting loose, celebrating, and capturing those candid, joy-filled moments.
Make a Grand Entrance - Whether it’s a choreographed dance or soaking in the applause, set the tone for an unforgettable night.
Think About Lighting - Fairy lights, candles, and warm tones create a cosy, romantic atmosphere for your photos.
Embrace the Unexpected - Some of the best shots come from spontaneous laughter, teary speeches, and epic dance moves - just go with it!
Final Thoughts: Just Be Present
At the end of the day, the best photos happen when you’re fully present and enjoying the moment. Trust your “team”, roll with the unexpected, and don’t stress about the small stuff.
Because the most magical photos come from real moments - the belly laughs, the happy tears, the hand squeezes that say “we did it.” So relax, have fun, and let your love shine - it’s going to be an unforgettable day!
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