What No One Tells You About Getting Ready Photos

When couples plan their wedding photography, they often focus on the ceremony, portraits, and reception. But there’s a magical part of the day that’s often overlooked: the getting ready photos. These behind-the-scenes moments are filled with anticipation, laughter, emotion, and intimate details that help tell the full story of your wedding day.

At Precious Pics, we’ve captured hundreds of wedding mornings all across the USA—from calm and quiet preps in cozy cabins to high-energy bridal parties in luxury hotel suites. And we’re here to let you in on everything you don’t know but should know about getting ready photos.

🎯 Why Getting Ready Wedding Photos Matter

You might think getting ready photos are just a few shots of makeup brushes and bow ties—but they’re so much more. These moments set the tone for the day and often turn out to be some of the most cherished images.

Here’s what they really capture:

• Candid laughter with your best friends

• Emotional exchanges with parents or grandparents

• Quiet reflection before the whirlwind begins

• The beauty of your attire and details before the wear and tear of the day

• The transformation—from everyday you to wedding-day you

These photos help tell the entire love story—from start to finish—and give depth to your wedding album.

📸 What Your Photographer Wishes You Knew

As professional wedding photographers who work nationwide, we’ve learned a lot about what makes getting ready photos unforgettable. Here’s what no one tells you:

1. Lighting Makes or Breaks the Moment

Natural light is your best friend. Getting ready in a room with large windows gives your photographer the ability to capture soft, beautiful, and flattering images. Harsh artificial lighting or dark rooms can affect the mood and quality.

Pro Tip: Choose a prep location with good window light and neutral walls if possible.

2. Clutter Shows Up in Photos

Suitcases, shopping bags, fast food wrappers—it all becomes part of the background unless it’s cleared away. A tidy room helps the focus stay on the people, not the mess.

Pro Tip: Designate a “dump zone” for clutter or ask one person to help keep the room photo-ready.

3. Details Are More Meaningful Than You Realize

Your dress, shoes, rings, vow books, perfume—these aren’t just pretty things. They’re part of your story. We love styling and photographing these items before you put them on.

Pro Tip: Have your details gathered in one spot when your photographer arrives.

4. Emotions Happen Early

Tears often fall long before the ceremony—especially during gift exchanges, first looks with parents, or reading letters. These are powerful, emotional images that you'll treasure.

Pro Tip: Schedule time for a first look with a parent or best friend—it’s always worth it.

5. Hair & Makeup Timing Is Crucial

Running late cuts into your photo time. If hair and makeup run over, you’ll feel rushed—and that tension can show in your photos.

Pro Tip: Pad your prep schedule with extra time. Aim to be photo-ready at least 30 minutes before the ceremony or first look.

🕊️ Getting Ready Photos for Every Couple

Whether you're getting ready with a large bridal party or spending a quiet morning alone, these moments are worth capturing.

For Brides:

• Putting on your gown with help from your mom or maid of honor

• Admiring yourself in the mirror for the first time

• A toast with your bridal party

• Hair and makeup close-ups

• Private letter reading or first look with your dad

For Grooms:

• Buttoning your shirt, tying your tie

• Hanging out with the groomsmen

• Cheers with a favorite drink

• Reading a letter or opening a gift

• Putting on cufflinks, shoes, and watch

📍 Getting Ready Photos Anywhere in the USA

At Precious Pics, we travel across the United States to photograph weddings of every style. Whether you're preparing in a penthouse suite in New York City, a beachfront Airbnb in Miami, a rustic lodge in Colorado, or a high-rise hotel in Chicago—we’re there with cameras in hand and a calm, supportive presence.

💡 Tips to Make the Most of Your Getting Ready Photos

1. Plan Enough Time: Schedule 60–90 minutes for prep photos. This ensures we can document everything without rushing.

2. Coordinate Outfits: Matching robes, pajama sets, or color-coordinated attire make photos feel polished.

3. Include Meaningful Details: Bring heirlooms, notes, or special items that reflect your story.

4. Be Present: Relax, breathe, and enjoy the moment. These are the last quiet minutes before the day begins—savor them.

📷 Getting Ready Photos Complete the Story

When you flip through your wedding album in years to come, the getting ready images will transport you right back to the nervous excitement, the tears of joy, and the love that surrounded you before you said “I do.”

At Precious Pics, we offer full-day wedding photography coverage, including the getting ready portion—because no moment is too small when it’s part of your forever.

Ready to capture your entire wedding day story?

Contact us today or book a complimentary consultation.