Wedding photographer tells all; Why do getting ready photos take two hours?
The two-hour period for getting ready photos is meticulously planned to capture the magic and excitement of your wedding morning while ensuring everything runs smoothly. Here’s a breakdown of why these two hours are essential and how they contribute to creating beautiful memories of your special day.
45 Minutes for the Groom
Let’s make one thing clear: the groom's preparations are just as important as the bride's, and dedicating 45 minutes to just him is non-negotiable. During this time, I’ll photograph the groom’s attire, accessories, and candid moments with his groomsmen. This includes things like:
Shots of the groom's suit, shoes, cufflinks, and other accessories, a.k.a., detail shots.
Groom getting dressed, putting on his tie, watch, and shoes.
Candid interactions with the groomsmen, such as toasts, jokes, and last-minute pep talks.
These moments not only capture the groom's style but also the camaraderie and emotions shared between him and his closest friends.
15-Minute Buffer + Travel Time
Travel time and a buffer are crucial for a seamless transition between the groom's and bride's locations. There will inevitably be something that gets in my way or delays me, which is why we plan for any obstacles in advance. This 15-minute window allows me to move from the groom's room to the bride's suite without rushing, safely transport all equipment, and set it up correctly. You do not want any equipment malfunctions during your wedding day; trust me on that one.
1 Hour for the Bride and Bridesmaids
The bride's preparations are a definite highlight of the wedding day, filled with anticipation, joy, and meaningful interactions. Here’s how the hour is typically spent:
Before Putting the Dress On
Shots of the Dress Hanging:
Capturing the dress hanging elegantly in a beautiful setting, showcasing its details and design.
Photos of the bride’s accessories, including shoes, jewelry, bouquet, and veil.
Bride and bridesmaids:
Candid shots of the bride and her bridesmaids in their robes, enjoying special moments together.
Photos of hair and makeup being done to capture the transformation and excitement.
After the dress is on
With Mom and/or Sisters or Friends:
Emotional moments as the bride’s mom or closest friends help her into the dress.
Touching interactions, such as adjusting the veil, clasping jewelry, or sharing a hug.
Classic portraits of the bride with her mom, sisters, and bridesmaids, capturing the bonds and support.
Organizing and Handling the Wedding Party:
Group shots of the bridal party.
Candid moments of laughter, toasts, and final touches before heading to the ceremony.
The Importance of Detail and Emotion
Taking two hours for getting ready photos may seem like a long time, but I promise it will fly by. Having this time allows for a comprehensive and relaxed approach to capturing these intimate moments. It provides enough time for every detail, from the intricate lace on the bride’s dress to the groom’s nervous smile, to be beautifully documented. These photos will set the tone for your wedding album, telling the story of your day from the very beginning.
Creating a relaxed atmosphere
By choosing to have your destination wedding in Aruba, you’ll already be relaxed. That being said, having ample time for getting ready photos helps create an even more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Instead of rushing through the morning, you and your wedding party can savor every second, enjoying each other’s company and feeling the excitement for the day ahead. This unhurried approach also leads to more natural and candid photographs, reflecting genuine emotions and interactions.
Conclusion
Above all, my job as an Aruban luxury destination wedding photographer is to capture the essence of your wedding day with artistry and precision. The two hours spent on getting ready photos are a vital part of this process, ensuring that every precious moment is preserved in beautiful detail. When you schedule enough time for both the bride and groom’s preparations, travel, and buffer, it creates a seamless and stress-free experience that results in stunning photographs you’ll cherish forever.
