Getting Ready Photo Tips to Make Your Wedding Morning Calm & Beautiful
By Polly Baxter Photography, Wedding Photographer in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
Your wedding morning sets the tone for the entire day — and getting ready photos are where your story truly begins. From laughter with your closest people to quiet, emotional moments before saying “I do,” this part of the day is filled with magic.
As a Peterborough-based wedding photographer, I’ve captured hundreds of mornings, and I can tell you: the more relaxed and prepared you are, the more beautiful (and meaningful) your photos will be. Here are my top tips to make the getting ready part of your day feel calm, smooth, and picture-perfect.
1. 💡 Choose a Bright, Uncluttered Space
Natural light makes all the difference. Try to get ready in a space with big windows and neutral tones — it flatters skin tones and creates soft, dreamy photos. If your venue doesn’t offer this, consider an Airbnb, hotel suite, or even a loved one’s home with good lighting.
Bonus Tip: Keep the area tidy — designate a “messy corner” for bags, food, and supplies so the background of your photos stays clean and beautiful.
2. 👗 Hang Up Your Dress (and Details!)
Have your dress, veil, shoes, and accessories ready before your photographer arrives. Lay out your jewellery, perfume, vow books, and any sentimental items you'd like captured. It saves time and helps tell the full story of your day.
Optional but beautiful: Bring a wooden or personalised hanger for your dress — it photographs much better than a plastic one!
3. 🧘♀️ Create a Calm Vibe
Music, candles, and a slow, peaceful pace help you stay grounded. Avoid rushing through hair and makeup — schedule plenty of buffer time so you’re not watching the clock.
Pro tip: Ask one of your bridesmaids to keep an eye on timing so you don’t have to.
4. 💄 Be Partially Ready When I Arrive
Plan for hair and makeup to be mostly done when I arrive, so I can capture the final touches (like lipstick or setting spray). These finishing moments feel natural and make for beautiful photos.
5. 👯♀️ Coordinate Outfits for Your Crew
Matching robes, pyjamas, or neutral tones look lovely in photos — especially if you're doing a champagne toast or gift exchange with your bridal party.
Just be you though — if robes aren’t your thing, go with what feels most authentic!
6. 💌 Include Special Moments
Plan time for:
A letter or gift exchange with your partner 💌
A first look with a parent or loved one 🥲
A quiet moment for yourself to breathe and soak it all in 🧘
These make for some of the most emotional and personal images of the day.
7. 🕐 Get Dressed Early
Aim to be in your dress at least 30 minutes before you need to leave. This gives us time for:
Portraits of just you
Touch-ups or emergency fixes
Bridal party/family group photos
A moment to relax before the ceremony
No one wants to feel rushed in their wedding dress — trust me!
✨ Final Thoughts
Getting ready photos are more than just pretty pictures — they’re the beginning of your wedding day story. With a little planning and the right atmosphere, they’ll be full of joy, connection, and calm energy you’ll remember forever.
If you're planning your wedding in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire (or anywhere nearby), I’d love to capture this special part of your day.
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