Imagine the scene: your bridesmaids are chattering in their robes, your favourite songs are playing, the champagne is on ice and the curling irons are heating up. The morning of your wedding is a precious time, filled with fun and anticipation, and you’ll want to capture these treasured moments in getting ready photos you’ll cherish forever. We’ve asked fine art photographer Jennifer Shoubridge of Jennifer Jane Photography (jenniferjanephotography.co.uk) for her advice on how to capture the magic…

“I absolutely adore this part of the day. It can be such a mixed bag of emotions, from the calm to the nervous to the jubilant excitement,” says Jennifer. “Capturing photos of you all getting ready is an important part of telling your wedding day story and it sets the scene for what’s to come for the rest of the day. There are a few simple things that you can do help elevate your photos so they look truly amazing.” 

Right light
Great lighting can truly make your photos shine. Start by choosing a room drenched in natural light, then draw back the curtains, raise the blinds and dim or turn off any artificial lights. As you prepare for having your hair and make-up done, try to position yourself facing the window. This will allow the soft window light to beautifully illuminate your face and accentuate your features, resulting in stunning and flattering shots.

Tidy up
While it might not be the first thing on your mind, do you really want your photos to feature empty glasses and plates with half-eaten food, or the unintended appearance of carrier bags and cotton wool balls in the background? To avoid these distractions, consider using a different room to get into your dress. This way, when you step into your gown, you won't be surrounded by the remnants of hair and make-up or the morning’s breakfast. Alternatively, opt for a quick clear and tidy of the room before donning your dress – making the bed and decluttering the space can go a long way.

Showcase details
When your photographer arrives, have all the essential details gathered in one place for them to capture. This includes your veil, shoes, flowers, perfume and any jewellery you plan to wear. If you have wedding invitations or stationery, leave them out for some beautiful detail shots. Your wedding dress will look magnificent hanging up, but if it’s on a plastic hanger, consider an upgrade to a padded silk or elegant wooden hanger. These photos not only add depth and richness to your wedding album, but also preserve the intricate elements that make your day truly unique.

What to wear
Opt for something comfortable, which also makes you feel poised and confident in front of the camera. Coordinating your outfit with your wedding’s colour palette is a great idea, and matching pyjamas or kimonos are popular options for this purpose, adding a sense of consistency. Make sure you choose something easy to slip off without disturbing your hair and make-up, ensuring a smooth transition into your wedding attire.

The gift of time
Giving yourself ample time on your wedding morning to get ready – more time than you think you will need – is the easiest way to ensure a stress-free start to the day. That way, your hair, make-up and wardrobe changes become a leisurely affair rather than a race against the clock. Plus, you'll have room for those unexpected and memorable moments that make for the best candid shots. It’s like adding a sprinkle of magic to your getting-ready photos.

Be prepared
Unforeseen wardrobe malfunctions, like a tear in lace or a lost button on your dress, can seem like much less of a big deal if you have a small emergency kit. This preparation ensures that you're ready to tackle any unexpected hiccups, allowing you peace of mind to stay calm and composed. Likewise, if your dress is complicated to get into, practise buttoning or lacing it up, and consider investing in a crochet hook (the equivalent of a magician’s wand that can save your sanity, time and freshly painted nails). While these rehearsals may seem over the top, on your wedding day, you’ll exude confidence, stress levels will be minimal and you’ll look effortlessly radiant in your photographs.

These thoughtful preparations will not only help you stay calm and relaxed during the preparations but will also result in a stunning collection of photographs, setting the scene for a beautiful and memorable start to your wedding story.

Photography Jennifer Jane Photography