Recommended Allocated Time: 45 minutes

Getting ready photos are pictures with you + your mom + your bridesmaids before the day really kicks off. If you have bridesmaids robes, I’ll photograph you in those. And we’ll photograph you (usually with the help of your mom) getting into your wedding dress 🙂

I recommend having hair and makeup done well before getting ready photos start because I’d hate for you to be rushed!

1. Look for Windows

Most brides get ready indoors. But even when you’re inside, the most flattering light will still be with natural sunlight!

When I photograph getting ready photos, I’ll open every possible window and flip off all the light switches. You can make the lighting even more dreamy if you choose to get ready in a room with lots of windows and open areas.

2. Look for Clean Backgrounds

Picture frames on the walls and other background items make a photo busier and detract focus from you. If I can remove art from the walls and hide it, I will! Having clean backgrounds will make your photos look more timeless and elegant.

It’ll likely be messy havoc in your getting ready room. But we’ll clear off a corner of the room to look clean for photos 🙂

3. Have Your Mom & Bridesmaids Get Dressed First

Your mom or bridesmaids will help you get in your wedding dress. Have them change into their wedding attire first so they look picture perfect while helping you prepare!

4. Slow Down

Getting ready with your girls is one of the best parts of your wedding day! Try to leave more time here than you are expecting that you’ll need. I promise you’d rather be able to slow down and enjoy this time than feel rushed to get to the ceremony

This is Part 2 of my series “What Brides Should Know About…” To read more, click the below:

1. Details
2. Getting Ready
3. First Looks
4. Couple Portraits
5. Venue Photos
6. The Ceremony
7. Family Photos
8. Wedding Party Photos
9. The Reception
10. Exits

–> Planning a wedding can be overwhelming! But I gotchu 😉 After going to so many events as a photographer, I’ve got plenty of recommendations and experience with everything wedding-related. Click here to learn more about the Caili Chung Photography Wedding Experience <3