How to Photograph Bridal Getting Ready Photos — Part 2
Welcome to part two of my How to Photograph Bridal Getting Ready Photo series. In part one I talked about what order to photograph the getting ready photos, how to get the best lighting, and what you should be aware of your shooting location. Today I am going to share how to capture my favorite must-have shots that your bride will want to be captured on her special day.
My first piece of advice on how to get these beautiful, authentic, raw photographs that are listed below is to direct situations and give them action prompts rather than staging every single photo. I may ask the mom to adjust and fluff the veil then turn the bride around and tell her how much you love her. This creates an opportunity for controlled, beautiful photos and genuine reactions and emotions. Always have a plan and logical sequence to your photos so they naturally flow and you can be ready to photograph any unexpected tender moments.
Here is a list of my must-have shots of the bride getting ready:
Robe photos - (if they have matching robes) Get everyone on the bed or gathered together for fun confetti, champagne, or party shots. Make sure to get action shots as well as smiling at the camera.
Solo bride getting ready shots (featuring shoes, jewelry, perfume, lipstick). Make sure to get tight, up-close shots as well as wider angles showing the full body.
Mom or maid of honor shots. Action shots adjusting the veil or buttoning up the back. Get sentimental shots as well with them looking at each other, hugging, or connecting.
Group shots - Get the grand reveal to the bridesmaids, a group “fluffing” shot with everyone helping primp the bride, a classic smiling shot at the camera.
Extra - That first look with dad, a generation photo with mom/sister/grandma, reading vows or love letter, action shots with a makeup artist, group prayer.
Now I promise if you follow both part one and part two of my series on how to photograph getting ready shots, you will get some of your and your bride’s favorite shots of the whole wedding. Getting ready shots are so raw and real and always turn out so gorgeous if done right, which thanks to this series, you are now be assured you can do!