I’ll likely be with you for part of the getting-ready process - and it’s one of my favorite parts of the day to document! These genuine, joy-filled moments set the tone for everything to come. To ensure your images feel elevated, effortless, and true to you, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

lighting

Look for a space with lots of natural light, ideally from large windows. This kind of light is flattering and allows us to create soft, timeless images. But if you're into a more editorial, fashion-forward look, you can totally lean into that with bold flash photography instead. Direct flash in a moody room or darker space can give you those stylish, high-contrast "getting ready" shots that feel straight out of Vogue. If that’s your style, let’s talk about it ahead of time so I can intentionally create that look for you.

location

If you have the option, getting ready in a space that’s meaningful to you - like your childhood home or a place that feels deeply personal - adds so much to your gallery. It creates a comfort-filled atmosphere that comes through in your expressions and energy, and can help reduce any stress from the busy day. Don’t overlook creative options like a beautifully styled Airbnb either; they can offer unique character and often photograph better than a dark hotel room.

*Getting ready wedding day moments at the bride’s childhood home.*

clutter

I am no stranger to the hustle and movement of a busy wedding morning, but a little intentional tidying can go a long way in your photos! Consider keeping bags, suitcases, and extra clothes tucked away in a closet or separate room. A clean background keeps the focus on you and creates a more peaceful, editorial feel in every frame.

hair & makeup

Most of your portraits will likely be documented in natural light, so it’s important for your hair and makeup artists to set up near a window. This helps ensure your makeup matches your skin tone beautifully and gives a true-to-life preview of how you’ll look in photos.

getting ready attire

Before you step into your wedding dress, you’ll want to feel just as confident in your pre-ceremony look. Your getting ready images deserve to feel just as elevated as the rest of your gallery, so I recommend something stylish yet comfortable - think a chic robe, matching pajama set, or anything soft and elegant that makes you feel amazing. If you're getting ready with your wedding party, coordinating outfits always photograph beautifully and add a cohesive touch to the whole morning.

Ultimately, wear whatever makes you feel confident, relaxed, and camera-ready, because these pre-ceremony moments are just as much a part of your story as the rest of the day!

people in the room

The getting ready part of your day is such a special time - full of anticipation, excitement, and those sweet in-between moments. Be intentional about who’s in the room with you! Surround yourself with the people who bring calm, positive energy and genuinely make you feel your best. Whether it’s your closest friends, family, or just a moment of quiet with yourself, creating a relaxed atmosphere will make all the difference in how you feel (and how your photos reflect this beautiful part of your day).

final thoughts

The getting-ready portion of your wedding day sets the tone for everything that follows - it's where the energy builds, the butterflies flutter, and some of the most intimate, heartfelt moments unfold. With just a bit of intention, your space can feel calm, beautiful, and perfectly suited for the kind of imagery you’ll treasure forever.

From the lighting to the people around you, every detail plays a part in telling your story. And when your environment reflects your style, energy, and vision, the photos naturally follow suit - elevated, effortless, and entirely you.

Ready to dream up all of your wedding day details? I’d love to chat about your vision!

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How to Choose the Best Getting Ready Space for Stunning Wedding Photos