As a wedding photographer, one of the most common questions I encounter from couples is whether they should incorporate a “first look” into their wedding day. A first look is when the couple sees each other for the first time before the ceremony, in a private and often emotional moment captured on camera. While the decision to have a first look is deeply personal, here are some insights to help guide you through this choice.
Easing Nerves
One of the most significant benefits of a first look is the calming effect it can have. Weddings can be nerve-wracking, and seeing your partner beforehand can alleviate some of that anxiety. Sharing an intimate moment before the ceremony allows you both to take a deep breath and soak in the reality of the day together. This can be a grounding experience that sets a positive tone for the rest of your celebration.
Cherishing Time Together
A first look creates an opportunity for you to spend more time with your partner on your wedding day. Traditionally, couples spend much of the day apart until the ceremony. By opting for a first look, you can enjoy some quiet time together before the whirlwind of the day begins. This can lead to memorable moments that you might not otherwise have had amidst the hustle and bustle of the event.
Streamlining the Timeline
Incorporating a first look can significantly impact your wedding day timeline. It allows you to complete many of your formal photographs before the ceremony, freeing up time later in the day for you and your guests to enjoy the reception. This can be particularly beneficial if your schedule is tight or if you want to fully immerse yourself in the post-ceremony festivities without interruption.
Capturing More Photos
From a photographer’s perspective, a first look provides additional opportunities for capturing beautiful, candid moments. With more time allocated before the ceremony, we can take advantage of different lighting conditions and settings to create diverse and creative images. This can enrich your wedding album with a variety of shots that might not be possible if all photos are taken after the ceremony.
Questions to Consider
To help determine if a first look is right for you, consider asking yourselves the following questions:
- How do you envision your wedding day? Reflect on whether the traditional reveal at the altar or a more private moment aligns with your vision.
- How important is it to you to have extra time for photos? Consider if having a wide selection of images is a priority for your wedding album.
- Are you concerned about nerves? Think about whether seeing each other before the ceremony might help calm your jitters.
- What does your timeline look like? Evaluate if a first look would help streamline your day and allow more time with guests later on.
Ultimately, the decision to have a first look is yours to make. It’s about creating a day that reflects your love story and priorities. Whether you choose to see each other before the ceremony or wait for the aisle, your wedding day will undoubtedly be filled with joy and cherished memories.
