Getting Ready

Capturing the early moments...
but not at the expense of what really matters.

Most couples spend ages obsessing over timing, hair trials, and coordinating getting-ready outfits (and understandably so).

But here's something most of my clients discover later: what really matters in your memories isn’t how long you spent in robes or makeup—it's the moments after the first dance, when laughter and joy fills the room.

That’s why I prefer to keep getting-ready coverage to around two hours, and believe most of your storytelling magic happens later when everyone's together and the real fun begins.

How much time should you devote to "getting ready" shots?

Nearly every wedding photographer I’ve spoken with plans about 1.5–2 hours for prep photos—long enough to capture details, emotions, and a few big moments, but not so long that you’d regret missing the party later.

One photographer breaks it down: 30 minutes for the details, 30–45 minutes for hair and makeup, and another 30–45 minutes for getting dressed and final touches.

What do other photographers say?

Sam Gibson in Bristol typically starts two hours before the ceremony so people get used to the camera, while others—like those in London or Yorkshire—start about 1.5 hours out, aiming to capture detail shots without getting in the way of hair and makeup.

John Munno recommends 30 minutes to an hour for prep and portraits, like a first-look or bridal party shots—then focuses attention back where the day comes alive.

What do real couples say?

"I’m having our photographer come for the last 30 minutes of getting ready. All I really want is that shot of my mom helping me into my dress!"

Another bride agreed: “That was all I wanted—and looking back, I have zero regrets.”

Does this line up with broader planning advice?

Yes! Even big wedding resources like Brides suggest photographers arrive just an hour before you’re fully dressed to capture detail shots — not to prolong the morning beyond necessary.

And other photographers recommend at least 1 hour, preferably 1.5 hours, to capture accessories, candid moments, and the transition into formal portraits—without rushing you through the morning.

Late one morning, a bride was poring over timings and stressing about every minute leading up to her ceremony. I suggested we pare back to just a couple of photographed moments—her mom fastening her dress and a quiet laugh with her sister.

After that, I shifted my camera to wait behind the scenes.

Fast forward to the evening: photos of her chatting with friends on the dance floor, tears during speeches, and impromptu confetti in the garden became her favourites—memories she’s truly glad we captured instead of a longer stretch of morning rehearsals.

A friendly checklist to guide your planning:

• Keep getting-ready photography to a concentrated 1.5–2 hours

• Prioritise meaningful moments—like putting on your dress or a shared toast

• Use the time you save to deepen storytelling during speeches, dancing, or family mingling

• Ask your photographer upfront how they structure their morning coverage

• Make space for buffer time—hair/makeup often runs over, and that’s okay

If you hold onto just one idea from this—remember: the morning is important, but not everything needs to be photographed.

Your memories won’t be defined by how long your photographer stayed with you getting ready—they’ll live in the laughter, tears, and connection that come later in the day.