wedding photography

How to Prepare for Your Wedding Photography Session

July 23, 20253 min read

Your wedding day will fly by in a joyful blur, but the photos? They’ll last a lifetime. That's why preparing for your wedding photography session is just as important as choosing the right venue or finding the perfect dress. With a little planning, you can help your photographer capture the best version of your story—candid, emotional, and timeless.

In this post, you’ll learn how to get ready for your session, from selecting your outfits to coordinating with your photographer. Whether you're camera-shy or photo-obsessed, these tips will help you feel confident and relaxed in front of the lens.

Choose the Right Time and Place

Lighting and location can make or break your photos. When planning your wedding photography session, think beyond logistics and consider the vibe you want to create.

  • Golden hour magic: The hour after sunrise or before sunset is ideal for soft, flattering light.

  • Meaningful locations: Choose spots that reflect your story—maybe where you got engaged or a favorite weekend getaway.

  • Backup plans: Always have an indoor option in case of rain or unpredictable weather.

Work closely with your photographer to find places that match your style while offering good lighting and privacy.

Coordinate Your Outfits (But Don’t Match)

What you wear can set the tone for the entire session. Aim for outfits that feel like you, but a polished version.

  • Complementary colors: Pick hues that work well together and reflect your wedding palette.

  • Comfort over trend: Make sure you can move, sit, and walk comfortably.

  • Avoid heavy patterns: Solids and textures tend to photograph better than busy prints.

Bring a second outfit if your session includes both formal and casual shots—it adds variety and gives you a fun mid-shoot reset.

Plan Ahead for the Little Details

The small stuff shows up in photos—so it pays to think ahead.

  • Get your ring cleaned: Close-up shots make it shine.

  • Pack touch-up items: Lipstick, blotting papers, a hairbrush—bring a mini kit just in case.

  • Mind your hands: Neatly trimmed nails and moisturized skin go a long way.

Also, if pets or props are part of your shoot, bring an extra pair of hands to help wrangle them so you can stay focused and relaxed.

Communicate with Your Photographer

No matter how good they are, your photographer isn’t a mind reader. Be clear about what you want, but also trust their expertise.

  • Share your love story and dynamic as a couple

  • Provide inspiration, but avoid shot-for-shot expectations

  • Be open to candid moments—they often turn out to be the most powerful

When you work with a Houston photographer who truly gets your vibe, like the team at B&A Photography, you’ll feel more at ease—and it’ll show in every frame.

Case Study: Alicia & Marcus

Alicia and Marcus were nervous about being photographed. They told their photographer they felt “awkward on camera.” So, the photographer suggested a pre-wedding session at their favorite coffee shop followed by a stroll in the park. Wearing simple, coordinated outfits and focusing on just being present with each other, they ended up with photos that felt natural and full of joy. “We forgot the camera was even there,” Marcus said. “Now, these are our favorite photos ever.”

Your wedding photos are more than just pretty pictures—they’re a record of the connection you share. Preparing well ensures that you don’t just look good, but feel good too. And that’s when the magic happens.

Ready to start planning your session? Reach out to your photographer and start putting together a prep checklist today.

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