Getting-ready photos are a bit polarizing. It’s a rising trend we are watching grow on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok as weddings lengthen into day-long—even weekend-long—events. Some couples love them, crafting their timeline and photographer’s pay to cover those vital few hours before the wedding march begins to play. Others prefer the chance to get ready in a more private setting without the click of cameras and mental reminders to keep smiling pretty.
So when it comes to planning out the big day, should you be making time for those early morning shots? Let us lay out some pros and cons for you:
Pro: Getting-ready photos can be a great way to capture the minute details of your day. It’s a chance for the photographer to record the way light bounces off the sparkles on your dress or the way your partner’s hands look doing up his tie sans ring for the last time. The photos will preserve moments between friends and family that you get to cherish forever. These tiny details are part of what makes the day so special, and you’ll be glad to have the photos to look back on.
Con: The actual “getting ready” part isn’t always cute. Do you really need 30 photos of you and your bridesmaids making mascara faces with half-curled hair? Or the groom and his groomsmen sitting around in basketball shorts and white undershirts until the last possible second? Maybe push your photo timeline back an hour or two until everyone feels ready and put together. Then snag those cute photos in your matching robes or funny socks.
Pro: You get a little bit of time to get used to having a camera on you. For someone who is naturally camera shy or just shy in general, having your photographer there early can let you “warm up” a bit and grow more comfortable in the frame. By the time you’re heading down the aisle, the photographer will be just another body amongst the sea of people there to celebrate you and your love.
Con: Not everyone can fully relax if they feel like they have to be constantly camera ready. Even the most laid-back bride is feeling a few big emotions the morning of her wedding. And while we like to think of our bridal party as the ones who are there to help us stay calm, odds are they are just as nervous and stressed. Giving everyone time to not be on their A-game before several hours of smiling and looking pretty among guests will be appreciated.
Pro: You’ll get to see your full wedding day. When the gallery comes back, you’ll get a glimpse into what the morning was like for you and your partner. You’ll see your future husband cry over the love letter you had delivered to him and he’ll see the way his niece watched you admiringly from the doorway as your makeup was done—things neither of you would have seen otherwise.
Con: You’ll pay more for the photographer’s time—and rightly so! Most photographers offer packages that include a set timeframe of coverage, usually 6, 8, or 10 hours. To get photo coverage from the morning of all the way to your grand exit that night, be prepared to pay extra for their time and work. Consider your time frame and what makes the most sense for you.
No matter what you decide to do, remember that it is your day. Photos or not, it will be as memorable as you make it.
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