weddings · 5 min read · Updated July 2026
How to prepare for your wedding shoot
Two weeks before
Send your photographer a rough running order for the day, even if it changes. Include getting-ready time, ceremony, group shots, portraits and reception.
Share your must-have list of moments — the small things (your dad seeing you in your dress, your grandmother's toast, a first look with your best friend) matter as much as the ceremony.
Do a walk-through of the venue if you can, or share photos so your photographer can plan light and locations in advance.
The morning of
Getting-ready rooms photograph best when they're tidy and lit by natural window light. Ask everyone to keep bags, jackets and wrappers out of shot.
Have your rings, invitation, perfume and any heirlooms in one small box for detail shots — it saves 20 minutes of searching later.
Group shots done well
Keep the formal list short — 8 to 12 groups. Longer lists eat into the reception and everyone stops smiling.
Nominate a friend from each side of the family to help gather people. It moves twice as fast and lets your photographer focus on lighting instead of crowd control.
On the day
Eat something in the morning. Water at every stage. It sounds obvious but it's the single biggest thing couples wish they'd done.
Take five minutes alone with your partner right after the ceremony. Your photographer will step back — it's often everyone's favourite quiet moment in the finished gallery.
Frequently asked
- Should we do a first look?
- It's a personal call — a first look gives you a private, unhurried moment together and often means more relaxed portraits. Traditional aisle reveals are equally powerful. There's no wrong answer.
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