Maximize natural light to get your space ready for the big day.
Natural light is key. Here are tips to help us capture you in the best light.
There have been several times when we have shown up to shoot on the morning of the wedding to find that the windows are blocked by decor. Talk to your decorators about how they can maximize the amount of natural light in the space. Ideally, you should have the decor set up in a way that the light from any windows is shining on you.
Have your decor set up in an empty space when possible. Remove unnecessary clutter! Your photos and video will look so much better.
On cloudy days, we want to take you outside. Gray skies act as a filter for the sun and are perfect for capturing your wedding day. If you have access to a nice backyard or balcony, make sure it’s cleaned up so we can get some dreamy footage.
Choose your getting-ready room with light in mind
If you have a choice of rooms, look for one with a large window and enough space for your makeup artist, loved ones, and photo and film team. When possible, check the room around the time you’ll actually be getting ready. A room that looks bright in the afternoon may have very different light early in the morning.
Place the makeup chair near a window
Talk with your makeup artist about positioning your chair near the window, with daylight falling onto your face rather than having the window directly behind you. Soft window light can be beautiful for makeup, portraits, and those quiet getting-ready moments. If direct sunlight feels harsh or makes you squint, sheer curtains can help soften it.
Let us help with mixed lighting
Daylight and indoor bulbs can cast different colours onto your skin. Once we arrive, we may suggest turning off some ceiling lights or lamps if there’s enough daylight to work comfortably. Please keep any lighting your makeup artist needs—we’ll coordinate with them to find a setup that works for everyone.
Keep one small area clear
You don’t need a spotless house. A clear area near the best window is often enough. Move bags, garment covers, packaging, and spare clothing out of that space, and ask your decorator to keep windows accessible. It gives us room to capture your outfit, jewellery, and the people sharing the morning with you.
Have your details ready in one place
Set aside any details you’d like photographed or filmed, such as your outfit, shoes, jewellery, invitations, and meaningful keepsakes. Having them together helps us work efficiently and gives you more time to enjoy getting ready.
Leave a little breathing room in the timeline
Plan a few minutes after you’re dressed for portraits and moments with the people closest to you. Coordinate the timing with your makeup artist and photo and film team ahead of the wedding so these moments don’t feel rushed.
What if the room is dark—or it rains?
Please don’t worry if your space has small windows, the weather changes, or going outside isn’t practical. We’ll work with the available light and adjust our setup as needed. For outdoor moments, we’ll look for a sheltered spot or open shade when it suits the weather, your outfit, and your comfort.
Send us a quick look at your space
Not sure where to get ready? Send us a few phone photos or a short video of the room, including its windows, and tell us what time you’ll be there. We can help you choose a spot and flag any simple changes before the wedding.
Tell us about your wedding plans, and we’ll help you think through your photography and film coverage.
