The Ultimate Wedding Photography Prep Guide

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! As your photographer, my goal is to ensure that your special day is captured beautifully and stress-free. To help make that happen, here are some essential tips and tricks to prepare for your wedding photos.

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Perfecting the Wedding Day Timeline

A well-planned timeline ensures you get the best photos without feeling rushed. Here’s a general guide:

  • Getting Ready: Allow at least 60-90 minutes for hair, makeup, and detail shots.

  • First Look (if applicable): Plan for at least 15-30 minutes.

  • Ceremony: Include buffer time for any delays.

  • Family & Wedding Party Photos: Allocate at least 30-45 minutes.

  • Golden Hour Couple Portraits: The best lighting happens an hour before sunset—aim for 15-30 minutes during this time.

  • Reception: Candid moments will be captured throughout the evening!

Tip: Share your timeline with key vendors to keep everything running smoothly.

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Getting Ready: The Perfect Setup

  • Choose a spacious, well-lit room with large windows and minimal clutter for beautiful getting-ready shots.

  • Lay out key details such as your dress, shoes, rings, jewelry, perfume, and wedding invitation.

  • Steaming & Ironing: Ensure your attire is wrinkle-free before photos begin.

  • Keep the getting-ready area tidy—a clutter-free space makes for better photos!

Essential Family Photo List

To avoid last-minute stress, create a list of must-have family portraits ahead of time. Example:

  • Bride & Groom with both immediate families

  • Bride & Groom with grandparents

  • Couple with siblings

  • Full wedding party

Tip: Assign a trusted friend or family member to help gather people for these shots.

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Weather Contingency Plan

Weather can be unpredictable, but we’ll be prepared!

  • For rainy weddings: Consider clear umbrellas for stunning rain photos.

  • For hot weddings: Have fans, water, and shade breaks planned.

  • For winter weddings: Keep hand warmers available for outdoor shots.

The Wedding Emergency Kit

Having a small emergency kit on hand can be a lifesaver. Pack:

  • Safety pins & fashion tape

  • Oil blotting sheets

  • Mini sewing kit

  • Comfortable shoes for dancing

  • Extra bobby pins & hair spray

  • Lipstick for touch-ups

  • Tissues for happy tears

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Be Present & Enjoy the Moment

The best photos come from real, candid emotions. Try to soak in each moment without worrying about perfection. Trust your team—we’ve got you covered!

If you have any questions or want help refining your timeline, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to capture your beautiful day!

A man and woman embracing with their eyes closed at a celebration or event, with others in the background.