Deciding whether to have a first look on your wedding day is one of those choices that doesn’t have a right or wrong answer, just what feels best for you. Both options have their own unique benefits.
How does a First Look work?
A First Look is when a couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day, prior to the ceremony.
I’ll set you two up and coordinate until we’re all ready. I’ll be shooting from as far away as I can to give you a private moment to take it all in. Often couples exchange private vows at this time too.
As soon as you’re ready we’ll go to the next item on your timeline but there’s no rush, you should enjoy this moment. You can chat, catch-up, cry and simply enjoy this sweet time alone before the whirlwind of the day takes over!
Should we do a First Look?
Pros: First Looks are often a big help to a busy timeline because you can spread out your must-have photos throughout the day, before and after the ceremony.
If there’s no First Look, your trying to take all your group and couple photos after the ceremony as the sun quickly sets which can be a time crunch - and I’m all about making the day flow well so there’s never a stressful period. After the ceremony is also cocktail hour (!) so if you’re taking group photos during that time, candids with the rest of your guests may get missed.
I also work with a lot of couples who are private and not excited about being the center of attention. If that sounds like you, I’ve found that a First Look offers you space to feel all your feelings in private when you first see each other. My couples who are a bit more shy tend to open up during a First Look and feel really present while I quietly take photos from a distant. And then they feel more ease during the ceremony.
Cons: It’s a wedding tradition to see each other for the first time as one of you walks down the aisle so you’d miss that surprise element during the ceremony. If you love the idea of seeing each other for the first time surrounded by your loved ones then plan to skip the First Look!
There’s no right or wrong, I work with both all the time and I encourage you to go with your heart on this one!
