Why Skipping ‘Getting Ready’ Photos is a Big Mistake
Why Wedding Getting Ready Photos Matter
Hey friends!
I’m Bozena, a wedding photographer who loves capturing love stories from start to finish. Today, I want to talk about something that many couples don’t think about until it’s too late: wedding getting ready photos.
Let’s dive in. I promise this will help you plan your big day with more heart, less stress, and zero regrets.
What Are Wedding Getting Ready Photos?
Wedding getting ready photos are the pictures we take in the morning or early afternoon, before the ceremony. They show the little moments:
- You putting on your dress or suit
- Your mom helping with your veil
- Your best friends laughing while doing makeup
- Quiet moments reading letters or praying
- All the pretty details you picked: shoes, perfume, jewelry, cufflinks
These photos are full of emotion. They’re sweet, calm, and filled with joy and excitement. And here’s the thing—they tell the beginning of your wedding story.
Wedding Getting Ready Photos Are More Than Just Pretty Pictures
Some couples think skipping this part will save money or time. But here’s the truth: if you skip these, you’re cutting out a whole chapter of your wedding day.
Imagine reading a book and missing the first few pages. The rest won’t feel the same.
You’ll miss the story of how the day began—the nerves, the laughs, the final touches. Even your future kids and grandkids won’t get to see these sweet details.
Don’t Skip the Details: They Tell Your Love Story Too
To make your detail photos extra special, it helps to gather everything you’d like photographed ahead of time. Think of this as your mini “wedding morning mood board.” Place all your items in a box or tray the night before—like your invitation suite, rings, vow books, perfume, shoes, jewelry, or anything meaningful to you. If you’re adding special touches like ribbon, stamps, or family heirlooms, even better! I often bring styling mats and props to make your details shine, but having everything ready and in one spot saves time and lets me get creative right from the start. Let’s make your morning moments matter! Let me know if you’d like a sample list or inspiration board to help you prepare.
Why Trusting Your Photographer Matters
When I tell couples we need more time for wedding getting ready photos, it’s not because I want to take more pictures. It’s because I want you to have room to breathe, to enjoy the moment, and to let the story unfold.
When you rush this part, it shows. Things feel stressed. You might miss special shots or even forget things. I’ve seen brides forget earrings or grooms leave their vows behind—all because they were in a hurry.
So when I say, “Let’s plan enough time,” it’s so your day feels smooth and fun.
Wedding Getting Ready Photos Let You See Each Other’s Side of the Day
You won’t be in the same room that morning. But your photos will show you what your partner was doing while you were getting ready.
You’ll see them smiling, fixing their tie, maybe tearing up reading your note. That part of the story matters. It connects the two of you even more.
These photos fill in the gaps and make your wedding album feel whole.
Don’t Let These Moments Slip Away
Do you remember the saying, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue”?
You put so much thought into these details. But if you don’t plan time to capture them, they might be forgotten. No photos of Grandma’s brooch. No photos of the hand-stitched handkerchief from Mom.
I promise, one day, you’ll want to look back at them. Here is some ideas from Brides.com: The Meaning Behind ‘Something Old, Something New…’
How Much Time Do You Need for Wedding Getting Ready Photos?
A good rule? Plan for at least 60-90 minutes for wedding getting ready photos.
This gives us time to capture all the details, the candids, the laughter, and a few quiet moments too. And if you’re doing a first look with your dad or your bridal party? We need a little more time for that magic.
One part that often takes the most time? The detailed flat-lay photos. These include your invitations, shoes, rings, perfume, and other personal touches. I bring styling mats, ribbons, backgrounds, and other props to make sure your details look their best. I style everything in beautiful light, and that process usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes on its own.
Give yourself breathing room. It helps the whole day feel better.
What I Capture During Wedding Getting Ready Photos
Here’s what I usually include during that time:
- Your dress hanging in the window
- Rings, invitations, shoes, flowers
- Makeup and hair in progress
- Close-ups of jewelry and special items
- Final touches: zipping dresses, tying ties
- First looks with parents or friends
- Letter reading or prayer
- Candids of you with your people
Every couple gets a little different version of this, based on what’s meaningful to you. Here is more about my aproach to every part of your day: Walk through the typical wedding day.
Let’s Chat About Your Wedding Day (Even If You’re Not Sure Where to Start!)
Still figuring out what your wedding day might look like? Start by reading my post: Why Your Wedding Timeline Needs Your Photographer’s Input First! – it’ll help you understand how big of a difference thoughtful planning can make, especially when it comes to photos you’ll treasure forever.
Even if you’re just starting to plan and have no clue how your wedding day will look—that’s totally okay. I actually love helping couples figure it out! Let’s connect early, even if you’re not sure about the timeline, location, or little details yet. During our call, I’ll walk you through what a typical wedding day looks like, what moments you’ll want to make space for, and how to create a timeline that actually feels good and works for you.
I promise—after our chat, you’ll feel way more at ease and excited about what’s ahead.
👉 Click here to schedule your call with me!
I can’t wait to help you start planning your best day ever!
Before You Go, Here’s My Advice
I know weddings can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to plan, and sometimes cutting a little here and there sounds like a smart idea.
But when it comes to wedding getting ready photos, don’t cut corners. These are the quiet, beautiful moments that you’ll never get back. They’re the start of your best day.
If we’re already working together, let’s talk about your timeline soon and make sure you have enough time in the morning.
And if you haven’t booked your photographer yet—I’d be honored to capture these moments for you. Let’s make sure your story is told from the very first page.
Talk soon, Bozena
Comments
Leave a comment
0