Your wedding day is one of the most memorable and photographed days of your life. But before the shutter clicks, there’s a lot to consider to ensure your photos turn out stunning, authentic, and timeless. At Augmented Arts Weddings, we’ve captured hundreds of weddings across Melbourne, and we know just how important proper preparation is for your photography session.
This guide covers everything from what to wear and how to pose to what to expect — expert wedding photography preparation tips that will help you feel confident and camera-ready when the big day arrives.
Why Wedding Photography Preparation Matters
Great photography doesn’t just happen on its own — it’s a blend of light, emotion, styling, and preparation. A well-prepared couple will feel more relaxed, natural, and in sync with their photographer. And that comfort shows in every image.
At Augmented Arts, we don’t just document — we curate your story. From candid to editorial, our approach is guided by your personalities, preferences, and planning. That’s why we start prepping long before the first shot.
1. Plan Your Timeline Thoughtfully
One of the most important tips we give every couple is: build your timeline with photography in mind.
- Golden hour (the hour before sunset) gives the most flattering natural light — ideal for couple portraits.
- Allocate at least 30–45 minutes for a relaxed couple shoot.
- Include buffer time for hair, makeup, travel delays, and touch-ups.
- Discuss key moments you want captured (first look, dress reveal, family portraits) and work them into your schedule.
A well-structured timeline prevents rushing and helps us capture the magic calmly and beautifully.
2. Coordinate Outfits & Details
You don’t need matching colors, but your wedding attire should feel coordinated and intentional. Here’s what we recommend:
- Dress comfortably: You’ll be in it for hours — make sure you can sit, walk, and dance.
- Keep it timeless: Trendy pieces can date your photos quickly. Opt for classic cuts and subtle details.
- Mind the fit: Have your outfits tailored so they look sharp in close-up and full-body shots.
- Plan for accessories: Rings, cufflinks, shoes, bouquet, and heirlooms — these are essential for detail shots.
And don’t forget a clean hanger for your dress and an elegant box or flat lay for accessories.
3. Practice Posing (But Don’t Overthink It)
You don’t need to be a model to look amazing in your wedding photos. At Augmented Arts, we guide you through every pose — but a bit of prep goes a long way.
- Practice natural movements: Walking slowly together, leaning into each other, holding hands.
- Watch how you interact: The best shots are when you laugh, touch, and connect without over-posing.
- Know your angles: Take a few mirror selfies or pre-shoot pics to find your best side.
Pro tip: If you're feeling stiff, take a deep breath, smile at each other, and remember — this is your love story, not a photo shoot for strangers.
4. Hair & Makeup: Trial and Timing
Hair and makeup can make or break your confidence in front of the camera. We recommend:
- Doing a trial 1–2 months in advance, ideally on the same day as a dress fitting or pre-shoot.
- Avoiding dramatic changes (e.g., first-time lashes or new skincare right before the shoot).
- Setting makeup to last: Opt for professional products with staying power, especially for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather.
- Adding extra time in your timeline — delays here are very common!
Bonus tip: Ask your makeup artist to finish before the scheduled shoot time, not at it.
5. Trust Your Photographer
You’ve hired a professional for a reason — let them guide you.
At Augmented Arts, we don’t just snap photos. We read your vibe, the light, the setting, and your energy. We know when to direct and when to step back. When you trust your photographer, your expressions become relaxed, your movements more fluid, and your moments more real.
Communicate your vision beforehand — romantic, editorial, candid, cinematic — and we’ll help bring it to life.
6. Embrace the Unexpected
Melbourne weather is famously unpredictable, but it makes for some of the most stunning shots. Don’t fear a little wind or drizzle — they often lead to spontaneous, emotional moments that become instant favourites.
Other tips for the unexpected:
- Bring a clear umbrella (it photographs beautifully).
- Have a mini touch-up kit on hand (blotting paper, lipstick, tissues).
- Wear comfortable backup shoes for walking between locations.
Stay flexible, and magic will follow.
7. Capture the Calm Before the Ceremony
Some of the most beautiful photos are the quiet moments before the rush — a bride adjusting her veil, a groom tightening his cufflinks, a nervous glance, a tear from a parent. These images hold emotional weight.
To make the most of this time:
- Choose a well-lit prep location (natural light is best).
- Keep the space tidy — clutter can distract from emotional moments.
- Let your photographer know if there’s anyone you want included (grandparents, siblings, pets).
These calm moments often tell the most powerful stories.
Ready for Your Perfect Wedding Photos?
At Augmented Arts Weddings, we know that unforgettable photos start with thoughtful preparation. These expert wedding photography preparation tips are designed to help you step into your shoot with confidence, clarity, and a whole lot of excitement.
Your love is one of a kind. Let’s capture it in a way that’s honest, emotional, and elevated — exactly how it felt.
Based in Melbourne and booking Australia-wide.
Secure your wedding date now and receive a free shoot-prep checklist when you inquire.
Recap
- Create a photography-friendly timeline
- Coordinate outfits and details
- Practice poses and interactions
- Schedule a makeup and hair trial
- Trust your photographer
- Prepare for unexpected moments
- Capture the calm before the ceremony
Because wedding photos shouldn’t just look beautiful — they should feel unforgettable.
