One of the first questions I ask a client before creating a custom timeline for their wedding is whether or not they will have a first look. There is much debate on this topic, and even a lot of pressure now to have a first look. My goal in writing this is not to push one way or the other but simply share my opinion, my experience as a bride personally, and what I have learned from my time as a wedding photographer. I firmly believe that this is a personal choice and there is no wrong decision. It’s your wedding! That being said, there are some things to consider as you decide whether or not you want to have a first look.
What is important to yoU?
I have a lot of brides that want to see their groom’s reaction from down the isle, and others who want that moment to be just for them. Some couples feel that they would be too emotional or too nervous if they did not see each other before the ceremony, while some couples want to keep the tradition of not seeing each other, I think both are ok! It’s about choosing what works well for you and that’s different for everyone. For our own wedding, we chose to not see each other before, but instead prayed around the corner and it meant so much to us to have that moment. In my experience as a photographer, I’ve found that a lot of my couples have really enjoyed getting to see each other, and having a first look as a more sweet private moment in the midst of a busy day full of friends and family. As long as you incorporate things on your wedding day that are meaningful and create the day you want, that’s a win in my book.
LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT!
As a photographer, the most important thing I can communicate to my clients is how important having good light is - it can truly make or break your images! Whether you have a first look or not, the number one thing I’ll look at when creating a timeline is the sunset time, to ensure that we can get good light for all the portraits. Often, for winter weddings when it gets dark earlier, I recommend to my brides that they have a first look, especially if they want to have a later ceremony time! Sometimes, a first look is very practical choice in terms of not only lighting, but timeline. A lot of couples prefer a first look because it allows for portraits including both the bride and groom to be taken before the ceremony to save time and move into the reception quicker.
Ask for advice!
If you are still questioning whether or not to have a first look, my best advice is to ask your vendors! Your photographer or planner can help you decide and come up with the perfect plan for you! We do this all the time and have seen weddings done all different ways, so if you need any ideas, let us know!
I hope that this leaves you feeling equipped and empowered to make a decision about whether you want to include a first look in your wedding day. I also hope that you are more aware of what goes into getting pictures you love, and see how important it is to communicate with your photographer and wedding vendors! We’re here for you and it’s our job to bring our knowledge and experience to the table to help you plan the best day of your life