You see those fun and stylish getting ready photos all over Pinterest, and think – “YES, this is what I want my pre-ceremony photos to look like on my wedding day!” The bridesmaids laughing and holding champagne, groomsmen tying each others ties and wearing crazy socks… while these moments are surely real, the emotions and energy are authentic, there is thought, preparation and some curation that goes into them. As Apollo photographers, we’ve seen it all – we move furniture, shuffle people around, and get the best photos with any scenario we are placed in. But there are some things we’d like you to consider while you plan your big day!
Here is our Getting Ready Style Guide, from a wedding photographer’s perspective. Getting ready photos set the tone for your entire wedding gallery. With a little planning, this part of the day can feel relaxed, meaningful—and photograph beautifully. Preparing in simple ways, can contribute immensely to the overall look and feel of the photos captured during this part of your day. From what to wear to choosing a location, we have you covered!
1. Choose a Light-Filled Getting Ready Space
Natural light makes a huge difference. If possible, select a room with large windows and neutral walls. Open curtains and blinds as soon as you arrive to let the light flood in. Obviously if location is crucial, and/or budget doesn’t allow, you can only do so much. When it comes to hotels, do try to get a room with a window that doesn’t face another building directly – the more natural light the better! Another detail to note is wall coverings. Unless you are into a moodier look, dark paint/wallpaper will affect the way light reflects in a room as well.
2. Keep the Space Clean and Clutter-Free
Before photos begin, designate one corner or closet for bags, food containers, garment covers, and extra items. A tidy space helps your photos feel calm and editorial rather than chaotic. We are always here to help if furniture needs scooting, or to offer in-the-moment suggestions or advice, but the more prepared your pace is, the more time we have to capture what is happening during this important time in your day.
3. Plan Hair and Makeup Timing Thoughtfully
As with most things in life, hair & makeup often take longer than expected. Aim to have hair and makeup finished earlier than you think—especially for the person getting married. This allows time for portraits, details, and candid moments without feeling rushed. If you want bridal HMU captured, we typically just photograph the final touches: the last application of your lip, the final spray on your hair to make sure it stays “just -so”. You just have to make sure we start before your hair & makeup artist leaves!
4. Wear Something Photo-Ready
Anything cohesive and comfortable works well! Choose neutral tones without busy patterns or logos for a timeless look. Again, this all comes down to style preference. Matching robes or pajamas are popular choice, but if the matching outfit game isn’t for you, then just be mindful of the overall aesthetic you are going for. If that’s t-shirts and basketball shorts, great – maybe leave the jerseys at home? Don’t be afraid to ask your crew to try and fit the vibe – in their own personal way, they are here to be a part of your day. And please, please, don’t have your photographer arrive to a cluttered table covered in half eaten sandwiches – you know who I am referring to….
5. Have Important Details Ready
If you want detail/flat lay photos, be sure to gather meaningful items in advance: invitations, rings, vow books, heirlooms, shoes, perfume/cologne, and jewelry. Keeping them in one place saves time and ensures nothing is missed. If you and your partner want separate flay lays, keep that in mind as well – who will have the rings, etc. If you have a large group with you, or you know that you have too much to keep track of already, it can be helpful to designate a member of your wedding parry to be in charge of this, AND responsible for the items (rings especially!).
6. Limit the Number of People in the Room
Speaking of your wedding party members… More people can mean more energy—but also more clutter. Having only those closest to you present helps keep the space relaxed and allows for more intimate, emotional moments. This won’t be a huge to shock to most people reading this, but…. wedding days can be… a little bit chaotic. The more people you have pulling you in different directions, the more overwhelming it can become. Yes, the photos are the point here, but we also really want our couples to ENJOY their wedding day.
7. Allow Time for Real Moments
Yes, we absolutely do “stage” some of the getting ready photos. No one zips a dress that slow, or needs someone help them put on their jacket. We are all functional adults (hopefully). And. Some of the most meaningful getting ready photos happen in the quiet in-between moments—reading a note, sharing a hug, or taking a deep breath before the day begins. Even laughing about the slow motion zipping, or being an adult having another adult help you button a vest is a moment that could be m missed if we’re pressed for time. Build in buffer time so these moments can unfold naturally. Side Note: If you are thinking of giving your partner/wedding party/parent(s) a small gift, let us know so we can memorialize their reaction. This is especially important if your partner is opening the gift without you present – we know you want to see their face!
8. Trust Your Photography Team
Your photographers will guide you toward the best light, suggest subtle adjustments, and know when to step back and let moments happen. Trusting the process allows you to stay present and enjoy this part of the day.
We say it often, but when your wedding day ends, and the lights come down and the flower arrangements have been hauled away, the photos are what you will have to look back on for the rest of your life, and for generations to come.
For more getting ready photo inspiration check out some of our favorite galleries:
A Love Poem For The Happy Couple:
“I love you for what you are, but I love you yet more for what you are going to be.I love you not so much for your realities as for your ideals, I pray for your desires that they may be great, rather than for your satisfactions, which may be so hazardously little.A satisfied flower is one whose petals are about to fall. The most beautiful rose is one hardly more than a bud wherein the pangs and ecstasies of desire are working for a larger and finer growth. Not always shall you be what you are now. You are going forward toward something great. I am on the way with you and therefore I love you.”
FROM THE PHOTOGRAPHER:
At Apollo Fotografie it’s safe to say we love love. Like a lot. Our skilled professional photographers are passionate about their work. Our photographers are trained in a light and airy cinematic storytelling style. This is what makes us some of the best photographers in the Bay Area. We specialize in surprise engagements, engagement photography, San Francisco City Hall ceremonies, elopements, and weddings. Let us help you document your love! Whether you’re in San Francisco, the Bay Area, or beyond. Contact us at Apollo Fotografie today for pricing and availability.
