I love the bride and groom prep photos in the morning. There’s something about the nervous anticipation, the giggles, the final touches to outfits and flowers and watching Mum and Dad run around trying to be helpful! And lets not forget having one or two, possibly five sneaky glasses of prosecco.
I also love it as it’s a great time for us to all get on the same page and for you to overcome any nerves about having your photo taken and to go over any last minute details together. You may be the centre of attention, but remember all those eyes have nothing but love in them and walking down the aisle will be over in a flash… unless you’re Royalty walking down the aisle at Westminster Abbey. That’s a looonng aisle.
While spontaneity is the key to getting great candid photos at this time. There are a few pre-planning tips you can consider to help the morning run smoothly and let your photographer get the best shots.
1 - Pick a room with plenty of space and light.
It happens so often. Photographers turn up to an incredible venue and everyone is crammed into a dark corner of the bridal suite. If you’re getting ready at the venue, get those curtains open and let that natural light in. It’s also worth speaking to your hair and makeup about positioning and bringing some extension leads so you don't end up in the corner by the wall sockets and away from your friends and family and those awesome photo opportunities.
2 - Remember that less is more.
Keep the numbers down and really think about who you want to be there with you, because this is your time to get into your Zen space. Tidy up those late night snacks and clutter! Background music and some bottles of prosecco are a must but unwanted mess has to go. This allows us to concentrate on capturing those little moments rather than tidying up.
3 - It’s all in the details.
If you have a lot of details and sentimental items that you’d like to remember in the wedding album. Have them set to one side so we can set up the shots. It saves us having to interrupt you and allows us to create some beautiful images.
4 - The Guys. We can’t forget them!
If you’re all getting ready in the same venue, perfect! We can run over and grab some shots before your makeup. But if they’re getting ready elsewhere you might need a second photographer to hang out with them. The great thing about having two of us is that the guys can be just as nervous about having their photo taken and having a bit of fun in the morning helps ease them into the day. And the bride gets to see what they got up to!
5 - Relax! It’s your wedding day.
When you’re calm, everyone else is calm. If something has gone wrong, let someone else stress about it and 99% of the time, it was never that important anyway. Just focus on being present and taking it all in. Don’t try and force any moments because you want that picture you saw on Instagram. Just enjoy your time, forget that we’re there taking photos and you’ll create your own memories, unique to your wedding.