Wedding planning is full of decisions and while I don’t usually give input into choosing the dress – I often help my couples create their wedding timeline and find the answers to the burning question ‘should I do a first look?’ As this question is a popular one, I thought I would share my thoughts on the first look and help you make an informed decision about including one on your wedding day.
If you choose to see each other before the ceremony, we will find a private and beautiful spot away from everyone. This special moment will be between just the two of you and I will be sure to stand back and capture it all from a distance. I love giving my couples the time to just be with one another and feel the emotion and joy of what is to follow. Being able to have this moment alone, rather than at the top of an aisle with an audience offers a different kind of intimacy. And from that moment on, the day is spent together!
Often, couples fear that by including a first look, the ceremony won’t be as special. After photographing hundreds of weddings I have found that the first look only offers another meaningful moment for the two of you. No amount of time doing a first look can take away from the amazing feeling when you walk up the aisle to meet your husband to be. You will still get those butterflies and an overwhelming feeling of excitement and love, but the two of you will be much more relaxed.
The first look also allows you to spend much more time with your guests as all the formal photographs will be taken care of. After the ceremony the two of you can attend the reception and focus on celebrating with your loved ones. As you will be spending more time with each other and your guests, your photo collection will reflect this and feature much more candid photographs of the day as well as sweet portraits. The first look also improves the formal photographs as there is plenty of good light and the process is much more relaxed. This makes the photographic process much more enjoyable and no one has to miss out on the reception.
A first look can be a wonderful addition to your wedding and I’ve had so many brides tell me it was one the best decisions they made, but no matter what you decide, the important thing is that you choose what is right for you as couple.