The Getting Ready Dilemma

The Question Every Couple Asks

When you’re planning your photography coverage, the first debate is always how many hours do we need? The second? Do we really need “getting ready” photos?

It’s a fair question. After all, these moments happen before the “main event.” But here’s the thing: as a documentary-style wedding photographer, I can promise you this part of the day is often where the most candid, emotional, and laugh-out-loud memories happen.

Why Getting Ready Photos Are Worth It

• The Nerves + Excitement These are the hours when butterflies hit, playlists blast, and bridal parties hype you up. You’ll never have another moment quite like the anticipation before you walk down the aisle.
• The Details You’ve Dreamed Of Your dress hanging in the window. The shoes you hunted down for weeks. Grandma’s bracelet on your wrist. This is the quiet time where all those personal details get documented beautifully.
• The Candid Gold Laughter when someone messes up eyeliner. Tears when your mom zips your dress. A toast with your best friends. These aren’t posed, they’re lived – and they become some of the most cherished photos of the day.

What You Miss If You Skip Them

• No photos of your partner’s reaction to your wedding gift.
• No record of the “behind the scenes” chaos (the good kind).
• No storytelling arc – your album jumps straight to the ceremony, and you lose the opening chapter.

My Take as a Seattle Candid Photographer

The ceremony and reception tell the story of your wedding. But the getting ready part? That’s the prologue. It sets the tone, captures the nerves and joy, and gives your gallery context.

Think of it like your favorite Netflix show – you wouldn’t want to skip the first 15 minutes and miss all the character building, right? Same with your wedding story.

Pro Tip:

If you’re on a tighter budget, you don’t need full morning coverage. Even one extra hour before your first look can capture details, laughter, and candids without stretching your package.

Wondering how many hours of coverage your day really needs? Let’s build a timeline together that fits your story