Let's be honest here. We spend months planning out the little details of our weddings, so we look forward to our getting ready / detail shots just as much as our ceremony shots and couples' portraits.
I've compiled my top 9 best pieces of advice for optimizing the aesthetics and execution of these photos. Check them out below with REAL wedding examples.
BTW - this is the ladies version, but we know wedding details and wedding prep pics are not gender-specific!!!! PLEASE stay tuned for my Groom-oriented article on the same topic. Coming soon!
1. Organize your detail shots in a little box before the photographer gets there (days before so you know you have everything).
The last think you want to do on your wedding day is scramble around looking for the cute little details you spent weeks searching for on Etsy. Two days before the wedding, do an inventory check and put everything essential to your detail shots in your bridal shoe box, along with the shoes.
My checklist? I won't be able to list everything but here are the most common items: invitations, rings, jewelry, shoes, vow books, veil, purse, rosary, etc...
Pro tip: I always like to include flowers with detail shots in some way, shape or form so have those handy for your photographer when they arrive!
2. Get allllll your rings cleaned beforehand.
Everyone loves shiny, clean bling! Your jeweler or local ring shop should be able to help you out with this.
3. Upgrade your ring box & personalize your hanger.
There are tons of cute items that can seriously step up your detail shot game: cute little ring boxes are all over Amazon and Etsy, as are personalized hangers, custom cuff links and other cute items.
Pro tip: other items such as shawls or personalized jackets not only look great in your photos, but will FEEL great at your reception when you start to get chilly!
4. Keep your getting ready space as clean as possible.
Your getting ready pictures can be chaotic if everyone's suitcase is open, dress bags are askew, and general bridal "junk" is everywhere.. so designate a junk corner! If you keep clutter to a minimum, your getting ready pictures will be more aesthetically pleasing - and you'll be able to play with your available space like the photo below.
5. Exchange a little gift and handwritten note with your partner.
This is a great way to catch those tears on camera and have a cute little keepsake for years to come. You can exchange something as simple as notes, or each other's favorite bottle of liquor, or even jewelry. You don't have to overthink this, it's really just the thought that matters.... and like, I love taking these photos.
6. Designate a few special people: MOH, mom, MIL, grandma, sister, etc, to help you into your dress, put on your shoes, and help you put on your jewlery, etc.
Typically, the bride can't get into her gown and shoes all by herself. And even if she could, the photo-op of a group helping the bride out is priceless. Big key for this: make sure you communicate with anyone you want with you beforehand.
Pro tip: make sure your girls/guys are dressed before you are. When they assist you with your dress, they'll already be prepared to seamlessly transition into all the dressed up photos as a group.
7. Request a reveal with your bridesmaids or your dad.
We all know about the "first look" between a couple, but there are a lot of people who are excited to see you in your wedding getup.
Ask your photographer (cough, ME) to organize a first look with you and your side of the wedding party, or with you and a beloved parent / grandparent.
Note: I only suggest 1-2 extra reveals per wedding just so you can make the most of your wedding photo time.
8. Bridesmaids gifts can make for cute cohesive getting ready pics - my favorite? Matching robes or personalized flannel.
You can get your girls or your guys anything from personalized glasses to matching shirts, so get on Amazon or Etsy and go absolutely crazy!
9. BED CHAMPAGNE POP. DO IT, DO IT!
It's okay to jump on the bed - it's your wedding day!
Here's the deal - I don't care how many times I take this photo, it is always a freakin' blast. You get to cheers, pop champagne, and something about being in close quarters with all your girls in the last moments before you're in a fancy dress just makes everyone smile and laugh.
And that's it for now! Stay tuned for a Groom's guide to getting ready photos, because I have some THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS I would like to share.
- HL
PS: These opinions are my own, and just my personal opinions. Hannah Kuznia / Hannah Lux Photography cannot be held liable for any misadventures, failures, or issues with any wedding related advice shared here or purchases encouraged. Always consult with your planner or photographer and videographer before attempting anything. Not all photographs will turn out the same for a myriad of reasons.
Also - Yes. There are links here to help you find the items I've mentioned! I am an Amazon Affiliate and can / will make money on links shared.
Disclosure: Hannah Lux Photography is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising revenues by advertising and linking to [Amazon.com or .ca, .co.uk, etc.] Some of the links below above are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.