Choosing to have a First Look

You may be asking yourself: What exactly is a first look?  

A first look is when couples chose to ditch the wedding tradition that states they will not see each other before the ceremony, and instead spend a few intimate moments seeing each other for the first time in a more controlled and often private moment. Personally, I ADORE capturing this event.  From choosing the perfect location to spending those moments with the couple soaking in the moments before their ceremony, the first look offers a few benefits over sticking to tradition. 

The Perfect Location

Choosing a first look allows me to choose a location that is private (or semi private) and has ideal lighting.  It also gives us the extra time needed for traveling to a different area, in the instance that your venue doesn’t have a secluded location. By carefully selecting the perfect location, you’ll have photos that make your friends and family swoon when they see them. 

Less Waiting Around

Typically, your guests will have a chunk of time between the ceremony and reception where they’re left to entertain themselves. By opting for a first look, this chunk of time is greatly reduced, and you can get to partying with your loved ones much faster. After your ceremony, we can snag a few “just married” portraits (usually under 10 minutes), while your wedding party and family gather for formal portraits. Reducing the guests waiting time, means more of them will stick around for the reception. 

Fewer Nerves and Less Chance of Cold Feet

Nerves can get completely out of hand on the wedding day. Opting for a first look calms the nerves a bit, because you’re not on display during those first tender moments. Seeing each other before the ceremony gives you a moment to shed those tears, cheer in excitement, take a few deep breaths together and work out a bit of that nervous energy before walking down the aisle in full view of your loved ones.  

It slows down time

Choosing a first look allows you a small amount of time to truly appreciate each other.  So much love and energy went into planning your wedding day – and it can all go by in a blur.  Taking time alone, at any point in your day allows you to really look at, appreciate each other, and all that preparation.  The shoes, the hair…the perfect accent pieces. Take a few moments to soak that in and appreciate each other’s efforts.

Planning your perfect first look

Incorporating a first look into your wedding timeline is as easy as contacting your wedding photographer to arrange the perfect time; before your guests arrive and after you’ve put in all the hard work getting ready. They’ll arrange the perfect time for you to relax a moment and fall in love all over again.