Why You Shouldn’t Skip Pre-Ceremony Portraits!
Whether you're planning a large celebration or a small elopement, one part of the day you don’t want to skip is the pre-ceremony portraits. As a wedding photographer based in St. Augustine and Jacksonville, I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful and stress-reducing this time can be—not just for the couple, but for the entire wedding party.
Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful wedding at the World Golf Village Renaissance Resort in St. Augustine, FL. The couple chose not to do a first look, which made the getting ready portion of the day even more essential. With strong communication and careful planning, we made sure the bride and groom never accidentally crossed paths, but still documented every important moment leading up to the ceremony.
Staying in the same location—or close by—makes a huge difference. When everyone is getting ready in the same hotel or venue, it allows me to photograph both the bridesmaids and groomsmen without losing time in transit. It also adds a beautiful sense of continuity to your wedding album, showing the anticipation on both sides before you walk down the aisle.
If you're not getting ready near each other, talk to your photographer early. In many cases, adding a second shooter ensures both stories are told seamlessly. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact on your final gallery.
Pre-ceremony portraits also give you time to breathe and be present. It’s often one of the only quiet parts of the day where you can soak in the excitement with your closest friends and family. The laughter while putting on your dress, the moment your best friend helps with your veil, or your mom straightening your tie—these are the little memories that often become your favorite photos. As a wedding photographer, I love capturing these unscripted, emotional moments that help tell the full story of your wedding day.
Your wedding—big or small—deserves to be documented thoughtfully. Don’t overlook the value of the pre-ceremony time. It’s where nerves settle, laughter bubbles up, and some of the most intimate memories are made.
Looking for a wedding or elopement photographer in St. Augustine or Jacksonville? Let’s chat—I’d love to help tell your story from start to finish.
