A first look is a moment when the bride and groom are all finished getting ready + have a moment to see each other for the first time before they head down the aisle.
There is much debate about why you should or shouldn’t incorporate one into your day. I’ve shot weddings all around the world and seen couples chose to see each other or to keep it a big moment for the ceremony.
Here are just one photographers words of advice on why a first look can be awesome:
- You are both fresh.
Fresh as fresh can be. What a perfect opportunity to see each other once the makeup is perfected, the shoes and hair are in order, the tie is straighten and in check and the collar or all the lacy details are all in pristine condition.
2. Time Saver
Perhaps one of the greatest reasons to consider a first look: having a first look saves time. Once you have your few moments together for your first look you can jump right into your bridal party portraits, friend + group pictures. I even have some couples that opt to knock out all family photos before the ceremony. We can always pickup after the ceremony if we run out of time but we can get the bulk of them and maximize time doing other fun things with your guests. Easy.
3. Your Own Little Private Moment
Let’s face it, a Wedding is a crazy, busy day. Some brides and grooms opt for a first look to simply share a few moments of intimate alone time with each other [and me the nosy photographer ;p]. This, after all, is YOUR day, meant for just the TWO of you. I’ve witnessed many of these and the emotions are truly the best and, sometimes, the highlight of the day. Having a first look is a way to bring you and your love together, right from the beginning of this crazy day.
4. Utilize Extra Spaces at Your Venue
My couples get married at the coolest places. Sometimes in a vineyard, in a historical landmark, an industrial warehouse, deep in the woods, next to fancy boats, in red country barns, at the bottoms of emerald mountains –you name it. Having a first look allows you to get a series of photos in a part of your location or venue that you may not get to utilize on the day otherwise.
5. Extra Portrait Photos.
First looks only take 10-15 minutes, in that time not only does the big reveal happen but there is an opportunity to get a dozen or so more extra portraits of each other together. Some days, dependent on the chaotic schedule or locations it may be tricky to get portrait time as it is, this is a nice way to ensure you get some added portraits together.
In the end, each couple, love + day are completely different. A first look is a decision, like the many you will make in this crazy wonderful journey together. A first look is a great alternative for couples who want to maximize their time with their visiting dear ones, perhaps utilize a cool extra space in their venue, be fresh and get some extra portraits.
