Getting ready on your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, joy, and maybe even a few nerves. This time isn’t just about preparing for the ceremony; it’s a chance to capture those intimate, heartfelt, and fun moments with your closest loved ones before you say “I do.” These getting-ready glam shots will be cherished memories captured in timeless photos that you’ll treasure forever.
Here are 10 must-have getting-ready glam shots for your wedding day, so you and your photographer can plan to get them all.
1. Matching Bridesmaids Robes
What’s cuter than you and your bridesmaids rocking matching robes? Coordinated outfits make for picture-perfect photos while you sip champagne or share laughs. Consider robes in silky fabrics or cozy materials in your wedding colors or soft pastel hues. Bonus? These double as thoughtful gifts for your bridal party! Your photographer can stage fun poses like everyone smiling on the bed or a spontaneous toast.
Pro tip: Make sure the robes fit well and coordinate with makeup-free or natural beauty looks for a soft aesthetic.
2. Pour it up, Pour it up!
There’s no better way to toast the beginning of your big day than with a glass of bubbly. Snap some pictures of wine being poured, champagne bottles popping, or flutes clinking among you and your bridal squad. These joyful, spontaneous photos are filled with energy and capture the celebratory vibe of the day.
Pro tip: Opt for champagne glasses (or fancy mugs if you’re enjoying coffee!) that match your wedding style. A flowing, sparkly liquid shot makes an excellent addition to your album.
3. Opening a Few Gifts
Exchanging heartfelt gifts with your partner or bridal party is always an emotional moment worth preserving. Whether you’re unwrapping a handwritten letter, a personalised keepsake, or a piece of jewelry, this type of photo is both candid and meaningful. Your natural, unfiltered expressions of surprise, happiness, and even tears of joy are the essence of these photos!
Pro tip: Coordinate with your photographer ahead of time to document this moment as it unfolds naturally and authentically.
4. Putting on the Dress
This is one of the most iconic bridal moments—slipping into your dream wedding gown. Whether it’s buttoning up the back, adjusting the straps, or a bridesmaid helping with the train, these shots are timeless and showcase the gown’s intricate details. The love and care in these images set the stage for the magic yet to come.
Pro tip: Keep the background clean and minimal for a more polished look. Natural light is your best friend here.
5. First Reactions to the Dress
One of the sweetest moments leading up to your wedding is when your bridal party or parents see you in your dress for the first time. Their faces filled with awe, love, and emotion tell a story words never could. Whether it’s bridesmaids gasping, siblings tearing up, or your mom holding her heart, these photos are sure to melt hearts.
Pro tip: Have your photographer position them ahead of time for that dramatic moment when the door opens and the reveal happens.
6. Putting on the Garter Belt!
The garter belt tradition is one of the cheekier elements of a wedding day, and getting a photo of you putting it on is both fun and flirty. Whether you do it yourself or have a bridesmaid assist, this little moment adds a touch of spice to your getting-ready photos without going overboard.
Pro tip: Pair this shot with pretty details like your bouquet or wedding shoes nearby for a cohesive and beautiful photo.
7. Let’s Say a Quick Prayer
If faith or spirituality is an important part of your day, gather your bridal party or family for a quick moment of prayer or quiet reflection. These photos evoke a sense of peace and gratitude, perfectly balancing the excitement of your big day. They’re perfect for capturing a deep, emotional connection between you and your loved ones.
Pro tip: For an artistic touch, seat everyone in a circle or hold hands while standing, with your photographer capturing the closeness.
8. Strapping on Heels
That Cinderella moment of slipping into your wedding shoes deserves its own spotlight! Whether you’re rocking strappy stilettos, crystal-encrusted pumps, or comfy flats, your photographer can frame a chic, close-up shot of you fastening the straps or placing your heel elegantly on the ground.
Pro tip: Choose a corner with great lighting and keep the focus on your shoes, dress hemline, and hands for a dainty, elegant feel.
9. Special Moment with Mum
A mother-daughter moment on your wedding day could include her buttoning your dress, adjusting your veil, or whispering words of love and encouragement. This is a tender, meaningful interaction that holds so much emotional depth. Years from now, you’ll treasure having this moment captured forever.
Pro tip: Ensure there’s a sentimental touch—perhaps she wears a piece of jewelry that ties back to her own wedding day, adding extra layers to the story.
10. A Toast to the Journey Ahead
This final moment before you step into the ceremony is where the excitement truly builds. Raise your glass with your bridesmaids, hug your mom, or take one breath alone in front of a mirror. It’s your last moment “before the rest of forever” begins, and it deserves a captured reflection of what made that day uniquely yours.
Pro tip: Ask your photographer to focus on your emotions during this moment. Whether you’re smiling, tearing up, or reflecting, the photo will be a work of art.
FAQs About Getting-Ready Photos
Q: When should the photographer arrive for getting-ready photos?
The photographer should typically arrive 2-3 hours before your ceremony begins. This ensures enough time to capture all the details and moments without feeling rushed.
Q: How can I make these shots unique?
Personalise your photos by incorporating sentimental details or themes, such as heirloom jewelry, custom robes, or handwritten vows. Anything that reflects your personality will make the shots uniquely yours.
Q: What can I do to ensure great photos?
Keep your getting-ready area tidy by designating one corner for photos. Good natural light is crucial for capturing the magic. Communicate everything with your photographer beforehand so no moment is missed.
Q: Should these moments be staged or candid?
A mix of both works best! Some moments, like the first reaction to your dress, are best captured candidly. Others, like the champagne toast, can be slightly staged to maximize their visual impact.
Q: Can these photos include the groom and his party?
Absolutely! Many couples opt for matching sets of getting-ready photos on each side of the bridal party. This gives a complete album of both perspectives.
Capture Every Unforgettable Moment!
Your wedding day is a collection of once-in-a-lifetime memories, and planning your must-have getting-ready glam shots is the perfect way to capture every special moment before you walk down the aisle. Whether it’s the laughter with your bridesmaids, heartfelt exchanges with loved ones, or those small but significant details like slipping into your dream dress or fastening your wedding shoes, these moments deserve to be preserved forever.
Work closely with your photographer to ensure nothing gets overlooked, from emotional candid shots to beautifully staged compositions. Your photos should reflect the love, excitement, and individuality of your story!
