Wedding details checklist during your getting ready portraits for your Wedding Photographer

 From delicate jewelry and elegant shoes to heirloom pieces and personalized decor, each accessory tells a part of your love story. Before you get ready for your big day, you should let your wedding photographer capture the accessories you’re going to wear so that you’ll always remember those special pieces.  Here’s a guide on how to prepare your wedding accessories to ensure that your photographer captures stunning ‘detail shots’ that reflect your style and personality.

Selecting your wedding accessories

Jewelry: Choose jewelry that complements your gown and overall bridal look. Consider pieces that sparkle and catch the light; they’ll look beautiful in photographs! Whether you prefer timeless pearls, dazzling diamonds, or bohemian-inspired crystals, your jewelry should enhance your natural beauty and add a touch of glamor to your ensemble. Grooms, I haven’t forgotten about you either. Choosing a simple chain and cufflinks can really elevate your wedding suit. Additionally, giving your photographer your tuxedo jacket or watch is also a great addition to those detail shots. 

Shoes: Your wedding shoes are more than just footwear—they’re a reflection of your personal style. Whether you opt for classic stilettos, romantic sandals, or embellished flats, select shoes that are comfortable while still adding something to the outfit. Whether the bride is wearing heels or the groom’s dress shoes aren’t looking up to scratch, if you have some extra time, you could also clean and polish them before the wedding day to ensure they look pristine.

Veil and Hair Accessories: If you’re wearing a veil, hairpiece, or floral crown, these accessories can easily be focal points in your bridal portraits as well as detail shots. Ensure they are steamed or pressed to remove any wrinkles and positioned properly in your hair. Your photographer will capture these details, so they should complement your hairstyle and overall bridal look seamlessly.

Bouquet and Boutonnieres: Your bouquet and groom’s boutonniere are essential accessories that add color and texture to your wedding photos. Choose flowers that coordinate with your wedding theme and colors and, of course, your wedding outfits. Keep your bouquet hydrated and fresh before the ceremony, and consider adding meaningful elements such as ribbons, charms, or heirloom brooches for a personalized touch. For example, a bride I worked with added an image of her late mother to her bouquet so that she would be with her on her big day.

Arranging your accessories for photography

Gather Everything in Advance: On the morning of your wedding day, gather all your accessories—jewelry, shoes, veil, bouquet, and any other meaningful items—in one place. This makes it easier for your photographer to capture detail shots efficiently without missing any important elements. Plus, we won’t have to disturb you while you're running around adding those last minute touches to your look.

Consider the Background: Choose a location with plenty of natural light and a clean, uncluttered background for photographing your accessories. A neutral-colored surface, such as a wooden table or a marble countertop, allows your accessories to stand out beautifully in the photos and is something I often use. That being said, I recently used a groom’s tuxedo jacket as the background for a detail shot! It’s really all about getting creative with what you have.

Communicate with your wedding photographer

Discuss Your Vision: During your initial consultation with your photographer, share your vision for the detail shots. Let them know which accessories are most important to you and any specific shots or angles you’d like them to capture. Providing clear direction ensures that your wedding photographer understands your priorities and can plan accordingly.

Trust Your Photographer’s Expertise: Your photographer has a trained eye for composition, lighting, and storytelling. Trust their creative vision and expertise in capturing stunning detail shots that highlight the beauty and significance of your wedding accessories. Allow them the freedom to experiment with different angles and perspectives to create artistic and timeless images, even if the process may not look exactly like you’d expected.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your wedding accessories for detail shots is not just about aesthetics—it’s about preserving precious memories and celebrating the intricate elements that make your wedding day unique. By selecting meaningful accessories, arranging them thoughtfully, and communicating effectively with your photographer, you’ll ensure that every detail is captured beautifully in your wedding photos.