Ideas for "Getting Ready" in the morning and how I approach it
A client has recently asked me about what do I shoot during "getting ready" part in the morning on their wedding day I thought I should write an article about it.
When I arrive at the groom's/bride's house, I start by introducing myself and my team members to the parents, groomsmen and any guest in the house. Getting to know who's who allows me to pay special attention to their reactions during the ceremony and reception. Then I will find the best spot for taking photos/videos - usually by a large window, outside in the yard or deck, or on a balcony.
Some hotels has inspiring architectural designs, which is perfect for wedding photos!
Here is a suggested list
- Groom's getting ready: grooming, putting on shirt, tie, jacket, parents or best man helping etc...
- Groom's accessories: watches, ties, socks, belts, cufflinks, shoes etc...
- Bride's getting ready: makeup (last a few stroke of brush, eyelash - mascara, lipstick), hair, jewelries, getting in the the wedding gown (the last pull or zipping up by the mom), installation of the vale, flowers, rings (both the groom's and the bride's)
- Candid shots
- Gift giving
- Have a few drinks
- Photos with the parents
- Photos with the bridal party
- Card reading - write some of your thoughts on a card and read it out in front of the camera - the bride/groom won't see it until the video is delivered
The First Look
Basically this part gives the groom an opportunity to be amazed by the bride in her wedding dress before the ceremony begins. However, some culture or religion insists that the groom does not see the bride until the ceremony begins.
Location wise, here are a few ideas:
- Steps in front of the church
- A park or garden
- A location where guests can't see the bride
Basically the the groom will be standing with his back facing the the direction where the bride is coming in. The bride comes in and taps the groom on his shoulder and the groom turns around and sees the bride for the first time in her wedding dress.
Checkout our sample videos to get an idea.
Some Photo/Video Shoot
If time allows, we could go to a park or garden even just outside of the venue for some photos and video shots.
Environmental Shots
We will take some environmental shots of the venue without asking.