“Should we have a First Look?” This is a common question leading up to a wedding day. And it’s a very important one! Personally, I’m a big fan of having a First Look. I’ve photographed couples who wouldn’t have it any other way and want that time together before the ceremony. I’ve also photographed couples that feel it’s a tradition they’re not willing to break-not seeing each other before the wedding ceremony.
Reasons to Have a First Look
- LESS PRESSURE: Some couples are nervous about being the center of attention and don’t want to share such intense emotions with everyone else.
- SPECIAL MOMENT: Your First Look is reserved for just the two of you and no one else.
- CONSOLIDATED PORTRAITS: If you’ve chosen to set aside time for posed portraits (vs. a photojournalistic wedding day approach), a First Look will save time. Instead of needing time for two separate groups of posed portraits, you only need one portion of your wedding day set aside for posed portraits. Consolidate your portraits since you’re able to see each other before the ceremony.
- GET TO YOUR RECEPTION EARLIER: This may be one of the most exciting reasons! Your guests are thrilled to celebrate with you. If you see each other before your ceremony, (if you’ve chosen to have posed portraits), you won’t have to spend time after the ceremony being photographed.
- MORE TIME TOGETHER: Your wedding day is all about you, the couple, and it’s longer than you may realize. Wouldn’t it be nice to spend more of it together? You’ll only need to be apart at the start of your day while you get ready. After the First Look, you’ll be more relaxed and have more overall time together on your wedding day.
- FRESHEN UP: You will likely feel a rush of emotions the first time you see each other on your wedding day. After your First Look, you’ll have time to freshen up, touch up makeup, remove tears, etc. before seeing your guests.
There are reasons not to have a First Look. Some feel the importance of keeping tradition and cultural customs. And if these things resonate with you, then please hold them sacred. As your wedding photographer, I will honor your wishes. Your wedding day is just that, yours!
Contact me to discuss your wedding day plans. To see other wedding day images, please follow this link.
