What do I need to have prepared for my photographer on wedding day?

This blog is for all my JTP brides!!! What I’m sharing today are some examples of specific photos that I take as you and your bridal party are getting ready. Sometimes these tiny details are overlooked, so I want to give you a few hints of how you could be more prepared for those detail shots. The details really help to tell the story of your wedding. I like to photograph these at the same time I’m photographing the getting ready photos. I go back and forth between the two.

I typically recommend an hour for these photos, as it takes a while to photograph each of the details. I also want to allow plenty of time to get photos of you and your girls hanging out before you put your dress on. This is a great time for those robe photos as well!

If you could have all of the details ready for me before I arrive and gathered in one place, that will help immensely with the time. You could designate one of your bridesmaids to keep all of this together, or you could even package it together yourself before the wedding day. When I get there, I can get started right away without having to locate all of the details. So what do you need to have ready for me?

THE DRESS

When it comes to capturing those perfect wedding details, I usually start with your dress, your veil, and your bridal shoes. It’s always a great idea to showcase it beautifully. I always bring a wooden hanger for the dress, but if you have a special one in mind that complements your stunning gown, feel free to use it! Every little detail adds to the magic of the day.

THE INVITATION SUITE

What I look for is the invitation, the announcement, R.S.V.P card, envelopes, programs, basically anything in writing that pertains to your wedding (don’t forget the envelopes!). This typically takes the longest to photograph. If you would like, you are more than welcome to send this to me ahead of time, and I can get pictures of it before the wedding.

THE RINGS

I LOVE taking photos of all three rings… the engagement ring, the bride’s wedding ring, and the groom’s wedding ring. Sometimes it takes awhile to locate all three (hint, hint:)), but knowing ahead of time that I will need them will help keep things moving along!

ACCESSORIES

I will take photos of all of your accessories-your earrings, necklace, bracelet, belt if wearing one, perfume, garter-anything unique that you are wearing that day. This can also include the traditional something blue, something borrowed, and even special heirlooms. The more details the better!

FLOWERS

Having the bridal bouquet, groom’s boutonniere, and bridal party bouquets in the actual dressing room allows me to go ahead and take detailed pictures of the flowers. It’s not always possible for the flowers to be delivered this early, but any time they are, I would love to photograph them before the day begins!! Also, if you can request your florist to provide some loose flowers and greenery, I can use those for styling all of your pretty details.

THE GROOM’S DETAILS

Don’t forget about the groom! I love photographing his details too! His tie, cufflinks, watch, boutonniere, or anything else special that he might be wearing! If I am going to photograph him getting ready, I can grab those shots while I’m with him.

I hope this piece of information is helpful to you and as always feel free to email me if you have any questions! Being prepared is always a great feeling~especially on your wedding day! I look forward to seeing y’all soon!!!