Preparing for Your Wedding Photos | Nikki Rinc
Your wedding day is full of magic, and the photos will be your lasting keepsakes to remember it all. But let’s be honest—when it comes to preparing for your wedding photos, many couples feel a little nervous about how to look their best. You want your photos to be natural, romantic, and authentic—not stiff or overly posed. So, how do you prepare to look and feel amazing? It’s all about setting yourself up for success with a few simple tips and tricks.
Here’s your ultimate guide to preparing for your wedding photos—from hair and makeup to mental prep, and everything in between.
1. Start with a Hair & Makeup Trial
Let’s be real: Your wedding day is not the time for a risky new hairstyle or makeup look you’ve never tried before. A hair and makeup trial is essential to ensure you love the way you look and feel on your wedding day. You’ll want to schedule this a few weeks before the wedding to have enough time to tweak anything. Make sure to bring inspiration photos (bonus points if it’s from Pinterest or your favorite Taylor Swift music video 😉), but also be open to your stylist’s recommendations for what suits your face shape, style, and wedding vibe. I highly recommend Kara Winslow for your make up needs.
Pro Tip: A slightly matte finish works best for photos, as high-gloss or overly shiny makeup can reflect light in unpredictable ways. And don’t forget waterproof mascara for those happy tears!
2. Consider the Lighting
Lighting is everything when it comes to photos. Natural light is always your best friend, so make sure your getting-ready space has plenty of windows. If you’re getting married outdoors, keep an eye on the time of day for your portraits—golden hour (just before sunset) is perfect for soft, flattering light. If you’re indoors, consider using off-camera lighting to ensure that you’re well lit without harsh shadows.
Pro Tip: A little bit of shimmer on your cheeks, shoulders, or collarbones can really pop in photos when the light hits just right.
3. Outfit Prep: Fit & Comfort First
You want to look incredible in your wedding photos, but comfort is key too. Before the big day, make sure your dress and suit fit just right. Brides, don’t forget to try on your wedding shoes with your dress beforehand—sometimes the hemline can shift with different heels. And grooms, make sure your jacket buttons easily and doesn’t pinch when you move. Feeling confident in what you’re wearing will help you feel at ease in front of the camera.
Pro Tip: Consider having a trusted friend or family member bring a quick-change kit with emergency items like safety pins, double-sided tape, and stain remover (because life happens!).
4. Stay Hydrated & Nourished
It might sound simple, but drinking plenty of water and eating a good breakfast or lunch on the day of your wedding will help you feel your best. If you’re starving, you won’t look or feel your best in your photos. If possible, bring some snacks along to your getting-ready space, so you can keep your energy up and avoid getting “hangry.”
Pro Tip: Hydration helps your skin glow, and feeling full and energized will keep your smiles looking natural.
5. Mental Prep: Relax & Be Present
Wedding days can feel like a whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and chaos, but the most important thing you can do to prepare for your photos is to relax and enjoy the moment. The best wedding photos are the ones that reflect who you truly are as a couple—your connection, your joy, and your love. Your photographer will guide you through the process, so trust them and let go of any pressure to be “perfect.” After all, this day is about you two, and your photos should reflect that.
Pro Tip: Take a deep breath, remember to smile, and don’t sweat the small stuff. The best moments happen when you’re fully immersed in the joy of your day. Preparing for your wedding photos does not have to be stressful!
6. Communicate with Your Photographer
The more your photographer knows about your vision for the day, the better your photos will turn out. Have a chat before the wedding about the types of shots you want, any family dynamics, and any special details you want captured (like custom vows or a sentimental heirloom). This ensures they can capture those moments exactly as you envision them.
Pro Tip: If you love candid, natural moments, let your photographer know so they can focus on those! If you’re into editorial or styled shots, share some Pinterest boards for inspiration. A little communication goes a long way.
Find Your Dream Wedding Photographer
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that your photos reflect you—your personality, your style, and the love you share. A great photographer will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you look and feel amazing in every shot. If you’re ready to find your dream photographer who will help you feel relaxed, confident, and connected on your wedding day, I’d love to chat!
Let’s make sure your wedding photos are as authentic, romantic, and fun as you are. Reach out today, and let’s capture memories that will last a lifetime. 💍✨
