How to Prepare For Your Photographer's Arrival on Your Wedding Morning

Maddy Parkin
May 18
2 min read

Top tips for a relaxed, photo-ready start to your big day

You’ve planned every little detail - the dress, the flowers, the playlist for your walk down the aisle. But one part of your day that can often be overlooked is the wedding morning itself. And it really does set the tone for everything that follows.

flat lay bridal floral dress alternative wedding dress boho flowers

So, from a wedding photographer who’s seen her fair share of busy bridal mornings (hi, that’s me!), here are a few gentle tips to help things run smoothly before I arrive with camera in hand...

1. Lay Out Your Details Early

Your dress, rings, perfume, shoes, jewellery, invitation suite - all those lovely little things that tell the story of your day.

Having them gathered in one place makes it easy for me to photograph them quickly and beautifully, without having to rummage through bags or ask your bridesmaids to hunt things down.

Bonus tip: Pop them near a window with soft natural light – it makes those flat lays extra dreamy.

flat lay wedding shoes bridal shoes, flowers and jewellery brial morning prep

2. Create a Calm, Tidy Space

Now I know - wedding mornings aren’t exactly known for being peaceful and serene.

But even if it’s just one corner of the room that’s clear of bags, hangers and half-empty glasses, it’ll make a big difference in your photos.

I’ll always work around the reality of the morning, but a tidy spot is the perfect backdrop for those ‘finishing touches’ shots.

bridal prep bride on her wedding morning getting ready

3. Have Your Bridesmaids Nearly Ready

They don’t need to be fully dressed at 7am, but if hair and makeup are more or less done by the time I arrive, it means I can capture some gorgeous natural moments - robes on, fizz in hand, and everyone feeling fab.

It also means there’s time for a quick group photo before you get into your dress, which is always a lovely keepsake.

4. Be Nearly There with Hair & Makeup

Ideally, you’ll be just about to have your final touches done when I arrive. That’s the golden moment for those glowy, close-up shots – lashes on, lipstick ready, and the excitement building.

We want to capture that beautiful anticipation before the dress goes on – the “this is really happening” part of the morning.

bridal prep bridesmaids and bride's mam sharing an emotional moment before the wedding ceremony

5. Most Importantly on Your Wedding Morning – Take a Breath

This is your morning. Your moments. The quiet little bits you’ll remember long after the cake’s been eaten and the confetti’s settled.

Try not to rush. Put your playlist on. Soak it all in. I’ll be there capturing it all quietly in the background - the laughter, the nerves, the proud smiles - while you just enjoy the start of your best day.

bride and her mam sharing an emotional moment before the wedding, bridal prep

Let’s Make Magic from the Moment I Arrive

Your wedding morning doesn't have to be a whirlwind. With a bit of gentle prep, it can be one of the loveliest parts of your day - full of meaning, emotion and beautiful light.

If this sounds like the kind of morning you’d love, let’s chat about your plans. I’m based in County Durham but travel all over the North East (and beyond!) to document relaxed, joyful weddings just like yours.