Wedding First Look: Should You Have One?
To tell you the truth, I don’t know one photographer who would tell you not to do a first look at your wedding.
The first look is the first time you will see your partner on your wedding day. Traditionally this is when the bride is first walking down the aisle. Wedding traditions can be amazing to keep and include in your big day. However, there are some that can be manipulated or adjusted a little bit.
You may not realize this but having a first look can save you headache, time, stress, and anxiety. The wedding timeline gets a bit crazy when you’re thinking about all the vendors and things that need to be coordinated. When you’re trying to fit so many things into 6-8 hours of time, it can get a little hectic. That’s why I will always recommend doing what you can to alleviate some of that stress.
If you can do the first look an hour or two before the ceremony. You can schedule the first look with no distraction and with no onlookers. You can also get family and bridal party photos before you start the ceremony.
If you do choose to go the traditional route and wait until the ceremony, there are going to be a lot of distractions. To act and to stand up in front of a crowd (especially if you’re not used to it) that’s a lot of pressure and can be anxiety inducing. Instead, why not pick a beautiful secluded area where just the two of you can go and have this time together. Why put the pressure on yourselves to have this picture perfect reaction in front of hundreds of your guests?
Adding extra time for a first look before your ceremony can also help if there are any delays in your wedding timeline. Having that set time can be helpful if say your makeup artist is late or there is a delay in your transportation. Because you’ll be allotting a little more time before the ceremony you have more flexibility when things don’t go exactly as planned.
Having time for pictures before the ceremony can also give you some time to actually enjoy your cocktail hour. Traditionally, the cocktail hour was scheduled so your guests could stay occupied while you and your wedding party are out taking pictures. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably spent a lot of time planning that cocktail hour and what if you want to enjoy it too?! Having some pictures done before your ceremony can give you the opportunity to do that.
The first time you see your partner on your wedding day is a very special moment. Having a first look is your opportunity to see each other, hold each other, be with each other, and take beautiful authentic photos. No matter what you choose for your wedding day, just know I will support you and make sure I capture all of the special moments.