In this blog, I will explain my process and philosophy for “getting ready” photos for couples who hire a documentary wedding photographer, and who therefore value intention, authenticity, and presence, and want these values reflected in their wedding photos.

In the whirlwind of a wedding day, moments of genuine connection and candid emotion often happen during the quieter times. One such crucial period is the cocktail hour—a time often overlooked but invaluable for capturing authentic moments in documentary wedding photography.