Why Should You Do a First Look?
If you don’t know what a first look is already, allow me to explain. A first look is an intimate moment for the couple to see each other for the first time BEFORE the ceremony. So why should you do one?
1. IT CALMS THE NERVES
If you are the type of person that doesn’t do well in crowds, or gets anxiety, a first look is a great option for you. It can be quite stressful knowing that everyone is watching you when see each other while walking down the aisle. Sometimes the nerves can even affect how you react! Being able to see your significant other for the first time before the ceremony, without anyone else watching, will take a lot of weight off your shoulders!
2. SHOWS RAW EMOTION
As a photographer, my favorite thing to shoot at weddings is the first look, hands down. Having this intimate moment allows you to TRULY be yourself and just let go. I have never not cried during a first look, because the raw emotion shown is absolutely heart warming. I always feel so grateful to help capture this moment.
3. ALLOWS MORE TIME FOR PHOTOS
Not everyone knows this one! If you decide you want to do a first look, you will not only be able do couple portraits together, but you can also get bridal party photos done with too! Once the ceremony is done, you can have more time to do family photos and/or enjoy cocktail hour with your guests! This is a great option if you want more time to spend with your friends and family, or if you have a lot of family photos you want to take!
4. THE FEELINGS DON’T GO AWAY
Most are concerned with losing the wow factor of walking down the aisle. But the magic of that moment isn’t lost as you’ll still get your aisle experience – after all you’re about to be married! You walk down single and walk back united with another person. Whether they’ve seen you dressed up or not has nothing to do with the magic of the moment. You can see it and feel it - the emotion is still there.
In fact, out of all my couples I have photographed, the grooms that have teared up the most have been the ones who saw their brides before their ceremony… call it coincidence if you will, but regardless, they were able to express their nerves, be hugged by their best friend and by doing so relax and let their true love show.
5. YOU WON’T REGRET IT
Out of all of the weddings that I have had the pleasure of shooting, I have never had a couple express to me that they regretted the decision to do a first look. While on the other hand, sometimes those who decided to go the traditional route ended up wishing they did a first look.
