How to Prep Your Getting Ready Space for Picture Perfect Moments
Your getting ready space sets the tone for the first chapter of your wedding day story—and it plays a huge role in how your photos turn out. A bridal suite with plenty of natural light helps us capture soft, glowing portraits that feel effortless and timeless.
Keeping the space clean and clutter-free allows the focus to stay on *you* and the meaningful moments unfolding around you. From slipping into your dress to the final touches with your girls, a bright, tidy space creates the perfect backdrop for photos that feel elegant, intimate, and true to you.
Trust us—those little details make a big difference in the final gallery. Here are our top 10 tips for setting up your getting ready space:
1. Choose a space with plenty of natural light
Natural light is a photographer’s best friend. Big windows fill the room with soft, flattering light that brings a romantic, airy quality to your photos. The brighter the space, the more timeless and elegant your images will feel.
2. Keep the room as clutter-free as possible
A tidy space allows the focus to stay on you and the emotions of the moment. Tuck away bags, shoes, food containers, and anything you don’t want showing up in your final gallery. Clean room = clean photos.
3. Have all your details ready to go
Before we arrive, lay out your dress, shoes, jewelry, rings, perfume, invitation suite, and any heirlooms. Having these ready helps us jump right into photographing the details without interruptions. These flatlay images help tell the full story of your day with beauty and intention.
4. Use matching getting ready outfits
Coordinated robes, matching pajamas, or classic button-ups look polished in photos and add a sense of togetherness with your bridal party. It’s a simple way to elevate the aesthetic of your morning. Bonus: they make great gifts and look beautiful in candids.
5. Designate one area for hair and makeup
Keeping hair and makeup contained to one part of the room minimizes mess in the background of your photos. It also helps us focus on capturing clean, calm moments in the rest of the space. Trust us—this little bit of organization goes a long way.
6. Let in as much natural light as possible
Open every curtain and blind before we arrive. The more natural light we have, the more dreamy, soft, and luminous your getting ready photos will be. Artificial light just can’t compare.
7. Plan for extra time
Getting ready often takes longer than expected. Build in a buffer so you don’t feel rushed and can actually enjoy these early moments. A little breathing room makes the whole day feel calmer and more intentional.
8. Limit the number of people in the room
Too many people can create chaos and overstimulation. Try to keep the space peaceful with only your closest friends and family present. It sets a tone of calm and helps you stay centered before the day officially begins.
9. Don’t forget about florals
Ask your florist to deliver the bouquets and any extra blooms to the suite before the photographer arrives. These add a beautiful touch to your detail photos and tie everything together visually. Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about later.
10. Pause and soak it all in
The getting ready portion of the day passes quickly—and it’s often full of the most intimate, emotional moments. Take a breath, look around, and let yourself feel everything. Some of the most meaningful images come from the quiet pauses between the excitement.
Planning Your Wedding?
Your getting ready space is just one part of the story—and we’re here to capture it all. From the morning excitement to the final dance, we create imagery that’s elegant, emotional, and completely *you*. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who brings calm confidence and timeless artistry to your day, we’d love to connect.
