When it comes to choosing the right wedding photography coverage and crafting your wedding photography timeline there are a lot of questions that pop up! One of the most common questions my couples ask is this: Getting Ready Photos : Do you need them? Let me tell you one thing right off the bat – there is very little you actually *need* for your wedding day! So the easy answer is – if this does not fit into your budget or your timeline then no, of course you do not need getting ready photos.

However, what kind of confidant would I be if I didn’t outline all the best reasons to have getting ready photos? There are so many benefits to scheduling getting ready photos into your wedding day. Personally, the getting ready portion of the day is one of my favorite aspects of wedding photography. There is so much I love about it! Check out four reasons why you should consider having your wedding photographer capture photos of you and your besties getting ready on your wedding day:

1. Storytelling
2. Anticipation
3. Candids
4. Relationships

So what does all this mean? Let’s dive in!

Getting Ready Photos tell a Story

My approach to wedding photography is through storytelling. I love to capture all moments of a wedding day. My wedding galleries tell a story from start to finish. From how you started your day to how you ended your day. I capture all of the little details that are woven throughout the intimate moments, the joyous celebrations, and the rockin’ dance moves. So – when it comes to storytelling the getting ready photos play a critical role! You don’t just roll out of bed on your wedding day dressed and ready to go – though we all wish that were the case! When you look back on your wedding album and gallery you can feel each part of the day. You will remember when your bridesmaid popped the champagne for mimosas, the excitement you felt opening the door for the hair and makeup artists, and the tug in your heart when your mom helps put in your veil. Not having time for these moments – even to stage a few – can make your day feel like you jumped right to the altar. While that is obviously a super important part of the day – it doesn’t paint the whole picture!

Getting Ready Photos Capture Candids!

One thing that I hear from couples all the time is their desire for candid moments. They say “We want some posed traditional photos but we want LOTS of candids!”. So much of your wedding day can be staged and posed to get those beautiful photos. However, one of the best ways to get candids is to let your wedding photographer lurk. I know that sounds silly but for getting ready photos I just meander around snapping pretty much candids exclusively.

Getting Ready Builds Anticipation

The room changes when I show up. I don’t tell you that to toot my own horn or make myself feel important. Shit gets real when the photographer shows up though and the whole room has this buzz of energy. I live for it – it is such an exciting day! One of my mottos so-to-speak is to take photos that make you FEEL. When you see your photos for the first time (and every time after) you will remember exactly how you felt on that day. You will be able to feel the anticipation you feel while getting ready to say I do like it happened yesterday. When capturing all the feels of your wedding day – don’t let the feeling of anticipation and excitement during the getting ready part of your day to pass you by!

The Power of Relationships

By the time your wedding day rolls around we surely have gotten to know one another. The relationship with your wedding photographer is super important. As I’ve mentioned – photos should make you feel! If you don’t feel comfortable when taking your photos then those weird feelings are going to be attached to your images no matter how beautiful they look. If they don’t feel like you then they won’t look how you want them. I take building relationships very seriously because I want you to be comfortable. That extends to your family, friends, and guests as well. Scheduling getting ready photos on your wedding day helps me, as your photographer, to build relationships with those who are closest to you. It means a lot to me to learn names and relationships both to take better photos and to tell better stories. It helps the groom and groomsmen feel comfortable too – and they can be a tough nut to crack!

Looking for more tips?

If you’re looking for more tips on building your wedding photography timeline and deciding the best coverage for your unique wedding day be sure to check out these posts!

• How many hours of wedding photography coverage do you really need?
• 8 Hour Wedding Photography Timeline Sample

Planning your dream wedding?

I would LOVE to be a part of your dream wedding! Having an additional resource for tips, tricks, and support is always a bonus! Reach out today to inquire about your date and cross wedding photography right off the list! I can’t wait to hear from you!