Why You Shouldn’t Skip the Getting Ready Photos

It’s more than just makeup and suit jackets—it’s the start of your story.

When couples start planning their wedding photography coverage, one of the most common questions I get is:
“Do we really need photos while we’re getting ready?”

And the short answer?
Yes—100% yes.
And here’s why I think you’ll be so glad you didn’t skip this part.

1. It’s Where the Story Begins

The “getting ready” part of the day is about more than just hair and makeup or putting on a tie—it’s the build-up. The anticipation. The quiet moments before everything kicks off.
It’s where the butterflies live. Where the laughs and nerves happen. Where your closest people gather around you, helping with buttons, zips, veils, and calming words.

These aren’t just filler moments—they’re part of the full picture. When you look back, these are the photos that help you remember how the day felt.

2. All the Beautiful Details You’ve Thought About? This is When We Capture Them.

You’ve likely spent months choosing the perfect accessories, shoes, rings, florals, perfume—even the invites. This is the perfect time to capture all those little things in a calm, intentional way before the whirlwind begins.

We’ll take time to style your flat lays, document your dress or suit hanging up, and catch those in-between moments that make your gallery feel complete and personal.

3. It’s Full of Candid, Emotional Moments

Some of the most beautiful, real photos happen during this part of the day. It’s Dad seeing you in your dress for the first time. It’s your best friend tearing up as she helps you with your earrings. It’s the pre-ceremony pep talks, the hugs, the happy chaos of kids running around.

These moments can’t be recreated. They’re raw, genuine, and packed with feeling—honestly, some of my favourites to capture.

4. It Helps You Ease Into the Day

Getting ready photos are also a gentle way to get comfortable in front of the camera. We take it slow, we chat, we laugh—it’s relaxed. So by the time we get to the ceremony or portraits, you’re already feeling way more at ease, and the photos just flow naturally.

It sets the tone for the rest of the day.

5. You’re Only All Together Like This Once

Think about it—when else do you have all your closest people gathered in one space with so much love and emotion in the air? Your best mates, your siblings, your mum doing your buttons—this is such a rare, fleeting pocket of time. It deserves to be remembered.

So if you’re on the fence…

I totally get that wedding days can feel full-on and you want to make the most of every minute. But trust me—adding in that getting ready time (even just 45 mins to an hour) adds so much richness to your photo story.

It’s a part of your day. And I promise, you’ll look back at those photos and feel all those nerves, laughs, and little moments all over again.

Thinking about including getting ready coverage in your timeline?
Let’s chat about how to make it work in a way that feels calm and comfortable for you