#1 tips & tricks on wedding day photos/ videos

Tip#1 How to Prepare for Your Getting-Ready Photos and Videos

Hi there, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding! As a professional wedding photographer and videographer in Dunedin and Otago, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless beautiful wedding mornings. The getting-ready portion of the day is more than just a time to prepare – it’s a moment filled with anticipation, excitement, and heartfelt interactions. To help you make the most of these moments, I’ve put together a guide with essential tips to ensure your getting-ready photos and videos turn out stunning and stress-free.

Read on and click the pictures and videos below to view what other wedding couples did for getting-ready in the morning.

1. Choose a Well-Lit & Spacious Location

Pick a room with large windows for natural light.
Keep the space tidy by designating a clutter-free area for photos.
Avoid rooms with harsh artificial lighting (overhead fluorescents, mixed lighting).

groom getting ready near a large window

2. Coordinate Outfits for Getting Ready

Bride: A stylish robe, silk pajamas, or a button-up shirt for easy removal without ruining hair/makeup.
Bridesmaids: Matching robes or coordinated colors for a cohesive look.
Groom & Groomsmen: Classic loungewear, matching socks, or tailored suits for stylish prep shots.

matching pajamas for getting-ready photo

3. Prepare Important Details for Flat Lays

Have wedding accessories set aside for detail shots, such as:

Wedding dress and veil
Rings (engagement + wedding bands)
Invitation suite
Shoes, perfume, and jewelry
Groom’s tie, cufflinks, watch, and cologne
Bouquets and boutonnières

wow wedding accessories not necessarily expensive

4. Plan Emotional & Candid Moments

Bride’s first look with parents or bridesmaids.
Groom opening a heartfelt letter or gift from the bride (and vice versa).
Bridesmaids helping with the dress, veil, or jewelry.
Candid laughter, toasts, and last-minute adjustments.

First look by bridesmaids

5. Capture Hair & Makeup Process

Shots of the bride getting makeup applied, final lipstick touch, or hair being styled.
Emotional moments like mom or sister helping with finishing touches.
Groomsmen adjusting ties, buttoning jackets, or shining shoes.

hair dressing for bride getting ready

champaign for bride getting ready

6. Have a Timeline & Keep the Energy Fun

Allow enough time for relaxed, natural moments without feeling rushed.
Play music to set the vibe, and enjoy the experience rather than posing for every shot.

Wedding videography

Pre-Wedding Interviews: A Personal Touch to Your Film

One of the most meaningful ways to start your wedding film is with a quiet moment of reflection. I love sitting down with the bride and groom individually before the ceremony to capture their thoughts, excitement, and emotions. These short interviews not only add depth and voice to your wedding story—they also become priceless keepsakes you’ll treasure years from now. It’s a small step that makes a big impact.

Wedding videography

Plan a First Look for a Private, Emotional Moment

A first look isn’t just about photos—it’s about slowing things down and sharing a quiet, emotional moment together before the day takes off. Whether you're nervous or excited, seeing each other beforehand can ease the pressure, calm your nerves, and let you truly connect. Plus, it gives me the perfect chance to capture those raw reactions with beautiful lighting and without the crowd.

Tip#2 why are personalised vows so important

Do you tend to go for personalized vows, or stick with traditional ones? Does your wedding video capture the clear audio of your vows?