Should We Have Getting Ready Photos for Our Wedding or Elopement?
One of the big decisions when planning your wedding or elopement is whether to include getting ready photos in your photography timeline. While it may seem like a small detail, these moments can set the tone for the day and add a layer of storytelling to your wedding album. Here’s why you might want to consider them and a few reasons why you might opt out. Find out more below and you’ll find a selection of photos for your inspiration at the end.
Why Getting Ready Photos Matter
1. Capturing the Anticipation
Getting ready photos document the excitement, nerves, and joy on your special day. The quiet moments of reflection, the laughter with your wedding party, and the final touches all add to the story of your day. This is the only part of your day that you won’t see each other and we’ve found that having those moments documented allows you to really see and feel what each other was going through that morning. After all, only you will know the discrete expressions of your loved one.
2. A Chance to Capture Details
Your wedding attire, heirloom jewelry, love notes exchanged, and even the setting where you’re getting ready are details that often get overlooked but make for beautiful, meaningful photos.
3. Candid & Emotional Moments
Some of the most heartfelt moments happen before the ceremony; your parents seeing you in your wedding attire for the first time, a quiet moment with your best friend, or even a solo reflection before the big moment. These are the moments you simply cannot plan for.
4. It Completes the Story
Your wedding album should tell the full story of your day. Getting ready photos add context and depth, helping to create a seamless visual narrative from start to finish.
When to Skip Getting Ready Photos
While getting ready photos are a beautiful addition, they may not be for everyone. Here are a few reasons to consider skipping them:
You prefer a more private or low-key morning. Some couples want to keep their pre-ceremony time intimate and quiet without a camera present.
You have a short timeline. If your wedding or elopement is on a tight schedule, you might want to prioritize other moments over getting ready photos.
Budget considerations. If you’re looking to maximize your photography coverage, cutting the getting ready portion may free up time for other parts of the day.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Getting Ready Photos
If you decide to include getting ready photos, here are a few ways to make them shine:
Choose a well-lit space with minimal clutter to ensure clean, bright images.
Being yourselves will make for more natural and meaningful memories.
Coordinate outfits for your wedding party (neutral or complementary colors work well).
Have your details ready (dress, rings, vows, accessories) for easy access.
Be present and forget the camera to focus on enjoying the experience. This may mean putting phones away for a short time.
Final Thoughts
Getting ready photos are a personal choice, but they can add a rich layer of storytelling to your wedding or elopement. Whether you include them or not, what matters most is that your day is captured in a way that feels authentic to you.
Kahli & Leo
Wild Alpine Image Co.
