A calm, practical checklist for brides who want a relaxed, beautifully captured day
Your wedding day moves faster than you expect — and the most beautiful photos happen when nothing feels rushed. Over the years, I’ve seen that the couples who enjoy their day the most are the ones who feel prepared, supported, and free to be present.
This guide is here to help you do exactly that.
Whether you’re already booked with me or still searching for your photographer, this is a simple, photographer-approved checklist to help your day flow beautifully and your photos tell the full story.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be prepared.
Flat Lay & Detail Photo
These are the quiet opening pages of your story — the pieces that set the tone before the day unfolds.
Please have these together in one box or bag when I arrive:
- Rings (all of them)
- Invitation suite / stationery
- Vow books or letters
- Perfume / cologne
- Jewellery
- Shoes
- Watch / cufflinks
- Any sentimental or heirloom items
- Bouquet (if available early)
Your Getting Ready Space
The space you get ready in becomes part of your gallery.
If possible, choose a room with:
- Natural window light
- Neutral walls
- Benches, floors and beds cleared
- Suitcases, plastic bags and food hidden
- Dress and suit hung somewhere visible
A calm space = calm photos.
What to Wear While Getting Ready
What you wear during prep will appear in your photos.
Recommended:
- Robe, button-up shirt or neutral loungewear
- Soft tones (white, beige, blush, light blue)
- Avoid large logos or bright colours
This keeps the focus on you, not your outfit.
Hair & Makeup Timing
This is one of the biggest factors in how relaxed your morning feels.
From experience, the smoothest mornings always include:
- Hair & makeup finishing at least 30 minutes before dressing
- The bride not being scheduled last for hair & makeup
- Time for touch-ups before photos
When your morning runs on time, everything else feels easier.
Dress & Suit Preparation
Having everything ready avoids last-minute stress.
- Dress steamed or pressed
- Veil, shoes and jewellery nearby
- Wooden or white hanger ready
- Suit jacket, tie, shoes and socks laid out
This allows me to photograph these details without interrupting the flow of your morning.
First Look (If You’re Having One)
If you’ve chosen a first look, I’ll guide you through it completely.
All you need is:
- Comfort with a quiet, private location
- Time allowed in your timeline
- Openness to gentle direction for light and positioning
First looks are always about connection, not performance.
Ceremony Styling & Venue Details
These are photographed before guests arrive, when everything is clean and undisturbed.
Please ensure:
- Ceremony space is fully set at least 30 minutes before the start
- Arbour, aisle and chairs are in place
- Signage and programs are set out
- Seating plan is visible
Once guests arrive, this window is gone.
Family Photo List
This saves a huge amount of time and energy on the day.
- Written list of family groupings
- One helper assigned to call names
- Immediate family prioritised
This keeps family photos efficient and stress-free.
Bridal Party Coordination
For relaxed, stylish group photos:
- Bridal party knows where to be after the ceremony
- Phones away during photos
- Sunglasses off
- Ready to stay close for 15–20 minutes
This keeps energy high and momentum flowing.
Couple Portraits & Drone Shots
These are your hero images — the ones you’ll frame, print and come back to.
What helps:
- Being open to walking, moving and interacting
- Trusting the process (I’ll guide you the whole way)
- Venue permission for drone if required
- Flexibility if weather changes
The best photos always come from real connection, not posing.
Reception Styling
These are photographed before guests enter the room.
Please ensure:
- Tables are fully set
- Candles placed
- Name cards out
- Cake displayed
- Styling complete before guest arrival
Once guests sit, these details quickly disappear.
Sunset & Night Portraits
If timing allows, we’ll step away briefly for these.
All you need is:
- Willingness to step away for 5–10 minutes
- Comfort leaving guests briefly
- Trust that this time is worth it
These often become favourites.
Looking for a Photographer Who Will Guide You Through Your Day?
If you’re still searching for your wedding photographer and you’re looking for someone who will help you feel calm, supported and completely yourself on the day, I’d love to hear what you’re planning.
I photograph weddings in a relaxed, documentary style with gentle editorial guidance — so you can enjoy your day without feeling directed or rushed.
