Advice from 8+ years of experience
Your wedding day will move faster than you expect, in the very best way. One moment you’re getting ready with your girls, the next you’re walking down the aisle. Whether you’re planning a barn wedding, a lakeside celebration, or a dreamy woodsy wedding in Minnesota, a little preparation on the front end can make a huge difference in how smooth, calm, and joyful the day feels, and how your photos turn out. As a Central Minnesota wedding photographer, these are my top tips that I see make the biggest impact on wedding days across the region.
1. Have All Your Wedding Details Ready in One Bag
When your photographer arrives on the morning of your wedding, time is precious. One of the easiest ways to start your day stress-free is having all of your wedding details collected in a single bag and ready to go.
Include items like:
• Wedding jewelry
• Bridal shoes
• Perfume
• Invitation
• Wedding rings (in boxes if possible)
• Veil
• Vow books
• Any sentimental or heirloom pieces
This allows your photographer to begin styling and photographing your details immediately, especially helpful for timeline-driven wedding days at popular Minnesota venues.
2. Be Intentional With Self-Tanner or Spray Tans
If you’re planning a spray or fake tan before your wedding, be intentional with your tone choice. Outdoor images, and even images with flash, will draw out skin tones very quickly.
Cheap tanners often show up very orange on camera, especially in bright or golden-hour lighting. A reputable tanning specialist will:
• Match the base tone to your natural skin
• Help you avoid streaks or patchiness
• Ensure your skin tone looks even and natural in photos
If you're unsure, have a test tan done and have a friend take a photo of you outside.
3. Step Away for Bride + Groom Portraits (People Will Wait!)
When it’s time for your bride and groom portraits, try to leave friends and family behind. I promise, they will wait for you!
This quiet time is especially important for your wedding day photography, where golden hour light and scenic backdrops deserve your full attention. Fewer distractions lead to:
• Authentic connection
• Natural emotion
• Timeless wedding photos you’ll treasure forever
No stress, but we can't go back in time to have a do-over!
4. Bring Backup Shoes for Outdoors
Many Central Minnesota weddings include outdoor ceremony spaces, fields, gardens, or lakeside portraits. Even if the forecast looks perfect, bringing flats or boots (depending on the season) is a must.
This gives you flexibility if:
• The ground is wet or uneven
• The temperature shifts
• You’re walking between multiple photo locations
You can always switch back into your heels for the ceremony and reception. Trust me, with a long dress, nobody's gonna know!
Bonus Tips
• Use a Wooden Hanger for Your Dress
Wooden hangers photograph beautifully and instantly elevate bridal detail photos. (Menards sells large packs if you're tight on budget or time!) A plain wire hanger is also just as good, and more aesthetically pleasing than plastic.
• Designate a Personal Items Corner
Phones, bags, drinks, snacks, and coats can quickly clutter your getting-ready space. Choose one corner of the room to keep personal items tucked away so your wedding photos stay clean and distraction-free. If you need help deciding where, your photographer can help!
Your wedding day doesn’t have to feel rushed or overwhelming. With thoughtful preparation, and the right photographer, your day can feel calm, meaningful, and joyful from start to finish!
If you’re planning a wedding in Minnesota or Nebraska, I’d love to help you create a wedding day experience that feels effortless and beautifully documented.
Have you been searching for the perfect photographer to document your wedding?
Take the next step with me by filling out the short form below! I am currently traveling to photograph both Nebraska and Minnesota weddings.
