Groom getting ready photos

We are Steve and Laura, two wedding photographers that love wedding photography. We have put together a list of essential ‘groom getting ready photos’ that you should have taken on your big day.

1. Grooms Accessories

  • Use a plain background: A plain, neutral background such as a white wall or a solid colored sheet can help the accessories stand out and avoid any distractions.
  • Arrange the accessories neatly: Arrange the accessories in a neat and organized way to create a visually appealing composition. Consider using a table to create a clear area for the accessories.
  • Focus on details: Remember to focus on the details of the accessories, such as the texture of the tie or the design of the cufflinks. These details can add an extra level of interest to your shots.
 
Karen and Nigel - Irish Centre - Saturday 18th June 2022
Karen and Nigel - Irish Centre - Saturday 18th June 2022

2. Suits On a hanger

  • Use a plain background: Choose a plain, neutral background that won’t distract from the suit.
  • Hang the suit properly: Make sure the suit is hung straight and neat, with no wrinkles or creases. Use a good-quality hanger that won’t leave any marks on the suit.

3. Groom Pinning on the Buttonholes

  • Focus on the details: Pay attention to small details like the way the groomsmen attach the buttonholes or the way they adjust their ties. 
  • Capture candid moments: Instead of staging shots, try to capture candid moments of the grooms and groomsmen interacting with each other. This can result in more natural and spontaneous photos.
  • Don’t forget the group shot: After taking individual shots, make sure to take a group shot of the grooms and groomsmen to capture the full moment.
20220108 - Jade and Toby Wedding Brinsop Hall Herefordshire Saturday 8th January 2022

4. Groom and best man handshake

  • Set up the shot: Find a location with good lighting and an uncluttered background. Position the groom and best man facing each other with their arms extended for the handshake.
  • Get the right angle: Position yourself to the side of the handshake so that you can capture both faces and the extended arms. Make sure you have a clear view of both individuals.

5. Groom Putting On his Suit

  • Capture the details: Take pictures of the groom’s suit, tie, shoes, and any accessories he’s wearing, as well as the groomsmen’s attire.
  • Take candid shots: Capture candid moments of the groom and his groomsmen getting ready, such as tying their ties or adjusting their cufflinks.
  • Include the details: Take pictures of any decor elements that are important to the groom and his groomsmen, such as a special bottle of whiskey or watch etc.
  • Use props: Consider using props that reflect the groom’s personality or interests, such as sports equipment or musical instruments.
Wedding Photographs for Lara and James at Manor Hill House in Bromsgrove

6. Groom putting on cufflinks and watch

  • The best way to take pictures of the Groom putting on cufflinks and a watch is to start by finding a well-lit location with a clean background that complements the style of the wedding. Then, position yourself at an angle that allows you to capture both the cufflinks and the watch in the same shot.
  • We also take some close-up shots to highlight the intricate details of the cufflinks and watch.

7. Groom Putting on His Shoes

  • Use a zoom lens: A zoom lens will allow you to capture the details of the groom’s shoes and hands without getting too close and making him feel uncomfortable.
  • Keep it natural: Encourage the groom to go about his routine as he normally would, without feeling like he has to pose or perform for the camera. This will result in more natural and authentic photos.

Groom and Groomsmen Pre-Wedding Toast

  • Encourage the group to interact naturally, and be ready to capture spontaneous moments. Some of the best shots can be taken when people are not posing or looking at the camera.
  • Consider the background: Make sure the background is clean and uncluttered so the focus remains on the group.

9. Grooms wedding suit details

  • Whether the suit ws from Next or Tailor made, it is an important memory of the day.  We like to capture some close-up specific aspect of the suit styling to act as a reminder of what made it different for it to be used as your wedding suit

10. Grooms receiving gifts

  • Set up the shot: Arrange the gifts in a way that makes for an aesthetically pleasing composition, with the groom in focus. You may want to use props or a backdrop to enhance the scene.
  • Capture candid moments: Encourage the groom to interact naturally with the gifts, and capture candid moments that will convey the joy and excitement of the occasion.

Groom and Groomsmen having a chat

  • This photo can also serve as a way to showcase the personalities and style of the groom and his groomsmen. Whether they are dressed in matching suits or have their own unique outfits, this photo can showcase their individuality and sense of style.

Groom and Groomsmen Sock Shot

  • This is often a fun shot but we still have a few thoughts to make sure it turns out well.  We pay attention to the composition of the photo – all members should be positioned in a way that looks aesthetically pleasing and will compliment each other’s socks. 
  • We are make sure that everyone is wearing complementary colors and patterns when it comes to their socks – bright colors stand out against dark pants while subtle patterns can add some dimension to any shot. 
  • We take a few minutes to plan out the photo before snapping
 

13. Groom Doing Last Mirror check

  • Emotional significance: This moment captures the groom’s final preparations and anticipation before the ceremony. It’s a snapshot of the emotions and excitement he’s experiencing just before getting married.
  • Intimate and personal: The last mirror check often happens in a private space, such as a dressing room or the groom’s suite. This photo offers a glimpse into an intimate and personal moment that is not often shared with others.
  • Attention to detail: The groom is usually taking the time to ensure he looks his best for his bride and the wedding day. This photo highlights the care and attention the groom has put into his appearance, from his attire to grooming.
  • A sense of vulnerability: The last mirror check can show a side of the groom that is not always seen by others, revealing his vulnerability and genuine emotions as he prepares to enter a new chapter in his life.
  • Balance in storytelling: Wedding photography often focuses on the bride and her preparations. Capturing the groom’s last mirror check brings balance to the wedding story, providing a more comprehensive view of both individuals’ experiences.

14. Groom and Groomsmen Bonding / Having Fun

  • Emotional significance: These photos capture the close relationships between the groom and his closest friends and family members. They showcase the support, camaraderie, and love among the group, which is essential on such a significant day.
  • Candid moments: Photos of the groom and groomsmen enjoying themselves and having fun together often result in genuine, candid shots. These images show the personalities and dynamics within the group, making for more memorable and unique photos.
  • Relaxed atmosphere: When the groom and groomsmen are having fun, the mood of the photos is lighter and more relaxed. This can help balance the more formal and posed shots in the wedding album.
  • Ice-breaker: Fun and bonding moments between the groom and groomsmen can help ease pre-wedding nerves and create a more relaxed atmosphere for the rest of the day. Capturing these moments in photos allows the couple to look back and appreciate this time.

15. Funny Groom and Groomsmen Photos

  • Showcasing personalities: These photos allow the groom and his groomsmen to display their unique personalities and senses of humor. They reveal a more relaxed and fun side of the wedding party, which can make the photo collection more diverse and entertaining.
  • Strengthening friendships: Posing for funny photos can be a bonding experience for the groom and his groomsmen. It allows them to be creative together and enjoy the moment, strengthening their friendships and creating lasting memories.
  • Social media sharing: Funny wedding photos tend to be popular on social media platforms, as they often elicit smiles and laughter from friends and family who may not have attended the event. Sharing these images can help the couple showcase their wedding’s lighter side and generate positive engagement from their online community.

16. Grooms buttoning up his shirt

  • Capturing the anticipation: This moment often symbolizes the groom preparing himself for the big day and the commitment he is about to make. The photo captures the anticipation and excitement he feels in the final moments before the ceremony.
  • Detail and styling: A close-up shot of the groom buttoning his shirt showcases the details of his attire, such as cufflinks, tie, and any other accessories he has chosen for the occasion. This helps document the thought and care that went into his wedding day ensemble.
  • Groom-focused: Wedding photography typically focuses on both the bride and groom, but there are fewer traditions around capturing the groom’s preparation. A photo of the groom buttoning his shirt helps balance the wedding album by providing an intimate glimpse into his experience.

17. Candid Shots of Groom and the best man

  • Genuine emotions: Candid photos capture the genuine emotions and interactions between the groom and his best man, which might include excitement, anticipation, and nervousness. These authentic moments can be cherished for years to come.
  • Behind-the-scenes moments: These photos offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes preparation that goes into a wedding. They can document the details of the groom’s attire, grooming, and any rituals or traditions that take place before the ceremony.
  • Storytelling: Including candid shots of the groom and best man in the wedding album helps to create a complete narrative of the wedding day, giving a balanced perspective alongside the bride’s preparations.

18. Groomsmen with the Groom taking selfies

  • Showcasing camaraderie: A photo like this captures the bond between the groom and his groomsmen. It highlights their friendship and the fun they’re having together on this important day.
  • Informal and relaxed: Selfie photos tend to have a more casual and laid-back feel, which can be a nice contrast to the more formal and posed wedding photos. This informal style can help convey the genuine emotions and personalities of the groom and his groomsmen.
  • Capturing a modern trend: Selfies have become a popular way for people to document their lives and experiences. By incorporating selfies into the wedding photos, the couple is embracing a contemporary trend and creating a memorable snapshot of their time.
  • Unique perspective: Selfie photos often capture a more personal and intimate perspective, as they are taken by the subjects themselves. This can make the photo feel more genuine and special, as it reflects the groom’s viewpoint.

19. Groom tying their tie

  • Symbolism: Tying a tie can symbolize the groom’s final preparations and transition into married life. It represents the act of “tying the knot,” which is a common phrase used to describe getting married.
  • Groom’s perspective: Wedding albums often focus more on the bride and her preparations, so a photo of the groom tying his tie offers a glimpse into his experience on the wedding day. It provides balance and highlights the groom’s role in the celebration.
  • Candid moment: This photo captures a candid and intimate moment of the groom as he gets ready for the ceremony. It offers a personal and genuine perspective of the groom’s emotions and thoughts on his big day.

20. Groom spraying on his aftershave

  • Personal touch: Aftershave is a personal choice and often has a distinctive scent that is associated with the groom. Capturing this moment can help the couple remember the small, intimate details of their wedding day.
  • Candid moment: A photo of the groom applying aftershave is usually a candid and unscripted moment. Candid photos capture genuine emotions and can be a cherished addition to the wedding album.
  • Contrast and balance: Including photos of both the bride and groom getting ready for the ceremony provides balance and contrast in the wedding album. While the bride’s preparations often include elaborate hair and makeup, the groom’s preparations, such as putting on aftershave, may be simpler but are still meaningful.
  • Artistic appeal: A skilled photographer can capture the groom applying aftershave in a visually appealing way, focusing on lighting, composition, and expression to create a memorable image.

21. The Grooms GQ Shot

  • Style and sophistication: GQ Magazine is known for its sleek, polished, and stylish photoshoots. A Groom’s GQ Shot captures the groom looking his best, with particular attention to his attire, grooming, and overall presentation.
  • Confidence and charisma: The GQ Shot aims to showcase the groom’s confidence and charisma. A well-executed GQ Shot can make the groom feel like a suave, debonair gentleman, adding to the overall enjoyment and excitement of the wedding day.
  • Unique posing: Unlike traditional wedding photos, the GQ Shot often features unique and bold poses that highlight the groom’s personality and sense of style. These poses can create a striking, memorable image that stands out in the wedding album.
  • Attention to the groom: While many wedding photos tend to focus primarily on the bride, the GQ Shot ensures that the groom receives equal attention and recognition. This photo is an opportunity for the groom to shine and be the center of attention.

22. Groom with his Hands-in-Pocket Stance

  • Relaxed and natural pose: This stance often gives the groom a relaxed and natural appearance in the photograph. It can help him feel at ease and make the image seem more candid and genuine.
  • Confidence and style: The hands-in-pocket stance can convey a sense of confidence and style. It is a popular pose that is often seen in fashion photography, so incorporating it into a wedding photo can give the groom a fashionable and modern look.
  • Showcasing the attire: This pose can also highlight the groom’s wedding attire, particularly if he is wearing a well-tailored suit or tuxedo. Having his hands in his pockets can help emphasize the fit and cut of the clothing, making it a focal point in the image.

23. One Serious posed Shot

  • Capturing the groom’s personality: A serious, posed shot may be an accurate representation of the groom’s personality, showcasing a more introspective or solemn side of him that the couple wants to remember and share with others.
  • Formality and elegance: A serious, posed shot of the groom can exude a sense of formality and elegance. This style of photography may complement the couple’s overall aesthetic for their wedding, especially if they opt for a more traditional or formal event.
  • Artistic value: A serious, posed shot allows the photographer to focus on the groom’s features, the lighting, and the composition. This creates an opportunity for a more artistic and visually striking image.
  • Contextual contrast: A serious portrait of the groom can provide an interesting contrast to other, more candid and joyful photos from the wedding day. This variety can make for a more engaging and dynamic wedding album.

24. Groom in Focus with Groomsmen behind

Make him the central figure in the image. It helps capture his personality, style, and emotions on the wedding day.

  • Artistic expression: Using depth of field to create a blurred background adds an artistic touch to the photograph. It can give the image a more professional and creative look, making it a standout piece in the couple’s wedding album.
  • Visual storytelling: The groomsmen play a significant role in supporting the groom on his big day. By having them in the background, the photo tells a story of camaraderie and friendship, even if they are not in sharp focus.
  • Sense of depth: Blurring the groomsmen in the background adds a sense of depth to the image, making it more visually appealing and dynamic. This effect can make the photo feel more immersive and engaging.
  • Unique composition: This type of photo is not the standard group shot that one might expect from a wedding. By focusing on the groom and blurring the groomsmen, the image becomes more memorable and distinctive.

Get in touch with us today

If you are in need of a photographer and want to discuss your wedding further then get in touch with us today and we will be happy to help.