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There’s something about the week leading up to a wedding that just hits differently. Whether you’ve been shooting for a few years or a decade, there’s always that little spark of nerves, excitement, and, yes, a bit of stress. No matter how many weddings you’ve done, preparing for each one with intention can make all the difference in how the day unfolds.

It’s not just about making sure your gear is ready (although, of course, that’s important). It’s about creating habits that set you up mentally, physically, and professionally so you can walk into each wedding feeling confident and prepared. We’ve spent years fine-tuning our pre-wedding routines, and it’s made such a difference—not just in how smoothly the day goes but also in how we feel about our work.

One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is to start preparing early. Trying to scramble the day before to charge batteries, pack gear, and organize timelines is a recipe for anxiety. Instead, we break down our prep into manageable chunks throughout the week. For example, charging batteries and formatting memory cards happens on Wednesday, while gear cleaning and packing happen on Friday. Spreading out the tasks keeps the pressure off and helps us catch any issues before they become problems.

It’s also important to remember that mental preparation is just as crucial as physical prep. We’ve made it a point not to take phone calls on the way to a wedding—whether that’s chatting with friends or handling unrelated business. That drive time is sacred, and it’s the perfect space to get in the right mindset. For some, that might mean listening to a motivational podcast, while others might prefer silence or upbeat music to set the mood.

One area that often gets overlooked is personal care. You can be the most talented photographer or filmmaker out there, but if you’re frazzled, hungry, or uncomfortable, it’s going to impact how you show up.

We can’t stress enough how helpful it is to pack snacks and plan your meals ahead of time. Relying on a vendor meal at an event can be risky—sometimes it’s delayed, sometimes it’s forgotten, and sometimes it just doesn’t happen. Pack a small cooler with easy, non-perishable options like protein bars, fruit, and a sandwich. That way, you’re not running on empty while trying to deliver your best work.

Also, think about how you present yourself. Looking polished and professional matters, especially when you’re working high-end weddings. Whether that means getting your nails done, making sure your clothes are dry-cleaned, or just being intentional about your appearance, these small details add up. You never know who’s watching, and you want to make a positive impression not just on your clients, but on planners and other vendors who might recommend you in the future.

If you’re driving to the event, consider giving your car a quick clean. It might sound trivial, but when you’re pulling up to a luxury venue and stepping out in front of planners and clients, having a clean, organized car shows that you take your work seriously. It’s a small touch that reflects your overall professionalism.

We’ve found that setting routines around wedding prep not only reduces stress but also makes the whole process feel more intentional. Maybe it’s organizing your gear in a specific order or always setting out your clothes the night before. Maybe it’s making a checklist of everything you need to do in the days leading up to the wedding. Creating predictable routines around your work helps you stay grounded and confident, even when the unexpected pops up.

If you work with a partner or second shooter, make sure you’re both on the same page. That could mean dividing tasks or just communicating clearly about expectations. It’s important to establish roles and responsibilities before the big day, so there’s no confusion when you’re in the thick of it.

Don’t underestimate the importance of mindset either. Whether it’s spending a few quiet moments visualizing the day or simply giving yourself a pep talk on the drive, set the intention to show up as your best self. When your head is in the right place, it’s easier to adapt to whatever the day throws at you.

One of the best tips we’ve heard recently is to take some time the night before to wind down, even if it’s just 20 minutes. Light a candle, journal your intentions, or take a hot shower. Create a ritual that tells your brain it’s time to let go of the stress and focus on feeling prepared.

Pre-wedding prep isn’t just about logistics. It’s about ensuring your clients feel taken care of from start to finish. A smooth, organized, and professional approach not only sets you up for success but also leaves your clients feeling valued.

That’s why we created the Elevated Client Experience Bundle—a comprehensive resource designed to help you refine your communication, streamline your workflow, and ensure every interaction leaves your clients impressed. It’s all about creating an experience that matches the quality of your work, so your clients feel confident choosing you over anyone else.

If you’re ready to elevate your client experience and feel more prepared for every wedding, check out the bundle at thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle. It’s the kind of resource that pays off in happy clients, strong referrals, and a smoother, more enjoyable wedding day.

When you show up prepared, confident, and organized, it sets the tone for the whole day. You’ll feel more in control, your clients will notice your professionalism, and the entire experience becomes more enjoyable for everyone involved. Start building those habits now, and you’ll see the difference in how your wedding days unfold.