5 Tips to Get the Most from Your Bridal Prep Photographs

Let’s be honest—wedding mornings are a wonderful mix of excitement, nerves, and a fair bit of organised chaos (with a glass of prosecco never too far away). Between your mum looking for her lipstick and someone trying to figure out how to use the steamer, things can get a bit hectic. But those morning hours are full of magic, and your photographer is there to capture all the laughter, calm, and quiet anticipation before the day really begins.

Here are five easy ways to make the most of your bridal prep photos—and set the tone for the day ahead.

1. Keep your special items separate to be photographed

Before everything kicks off, pop all your key bits together—your perfume, jewellery, shoes, invitation suite, sentimental keepsakes, and anything else you’d love photographed. Putting everything in a small bag or box makes it easy for your photographer to get started with detail shots straight away, without having to rummage through suitcases or ask around for that one earring.

2. Keep the space tidy

We’re not aiming for show-home levels of spotless, but a quick tidy before your photographer arrives will make a huge difference in your photos. Hide away plastic bags, water bottles, half-zipped suitcases and clothing tags. Keeping one corner for clutter works wonders and helps the focus stay where it should be—on you and your bridal party, not the empty crisp packets on the floor.

3. Have a great playlist going

Music sets the mood, simple as that. Whether you go for throwback tunes, chilled acoustic vibes or a bit of 90s girl band energy, a good playlist will keep everyone feeling relaxed and upbeat. Some of the best prep photos happen during spontaneous singalongs or impromptu dance-offs in the middle of hair and makeup.

4. Matching pyjamas aren’t the be-all and end-all

Matching robes and pyjamas look lovely in photos, and they can be a really fun gift for your bridal party—but don’t worry if it’s not your thing (or if your sister rocks up in leggings and a hoodie). Comfort is key, and natural smiles always beat forced coordination. Wear what makes you feel relaxed and like yourself.

5. Aim to be in your dress 1 hour before you need to leave

Trust me on this one—it’s the best way to keep things calm. Being in your dress with a good hour to spare gives you time for bridal portraits, group photos, and a quiet moment with your closest people. It also builds in a bit of buffer time for any last-minute bits. No one wants to be rushing out the door with one shoe on and their veil still in the box!

To wrap things up…

Your wedding morning is one of the loveliest parts of the day—and with a little planning, it’ll feel just as calm and joyful as it looks in your photos. Want to see how these tips come to life in real weddings? Take a look at my wedding gallery here for a little inspiration and a lot of love: www.pettittphotography.co.uk/surrey-wedding-photographer

Enjoy every minute—and don’t forget the brekkie!

Lucy x