One Major List to Keep in Mind Before Planning A First Look 

When it comes to considering whether a wedding shoot will include a first look or not, there can be a lot of controversy over the subject.

This most likely has to do with the fact that two well-loved traditions are being put head-to-head, aka the classic tradition (with the first look being from the altar), and the modern tradition (where the couple has an intimate moment before the ceremony to see each other and take photos).

What is a First Look?

Let’s dive a little further into this second tradition.

For many, a first look can be described as a private moment between the wedding couple where (traditionally) the groom has his back turned while the bride comes up behind him. She then taps him on the shoulder and once he turns around, the photographer captures his emotion of seeing his bride in her dress for the first time. While it may not happen as often, another cute way to do a first look may be to have the roles reversed, where the groom sneaks up behind the bride and they both enjoy the surprise of seeing each other for the first time!

Whether couples want to follow the classic version of the first look or switch it up to fit their individual style ( goofy, themed, LGBTQ+, reversed roles, and more), there is no doubt that this moment can be extraordinary for the couple as it provides an opportunity to spend some alone time together on the wedding day. Additionally, this event also provides the photographer with loads of wonderful photo content.

Is a First Look Really Necessary?

To stick with a surprise coming down the aisle or to see your true love before the ceremony, that is the question!

This is exactly why we have gathered a short pros-and-cons list to help determine whether a first look will be the perfect fit for you or not. No matter what you decide, just remember that this is your day and you can always choose to change your mind if things don’t feel quite right-even if it is on the day of the event!

A great photographer will be more than capable of adjusting the schedule to meet your needs as best as possible, so don’t be afraid to ask.

First Look Pros

- Ease anxious feelings

For those who are feeling a bit nervous on their big day (which is completely normal by the way), a first look can be an excellent opportunity to get those jitters out. Taking a quiet moment together to soak each other in while thoroughly appreciating the wedding location and the feelings of the day is an excellent method of capturing gorgeous pictures- while also letting the tears and smiles flow freely!

- Create more time for photos

There are a couple of elements that play into this topic. For instance, if you have a winter wedding, time is of the essence! Especially if the ceremony is taking place in the evening. Because the sun typically sets anywhere between 4:30-5:30 pm, depending on your location. This can create an added rush to getting the couple shots taken after the ceremony and before the sun sets. With a first look, this haste can be avoided, as couples are able to take their time in getting those precious moments captured before the wedding even starts.

Along the same line, getting a first look done for any ceremony can decrease the amount of wait time for guests between the ceremony and reception. By using the opportunity to take photos together ahead of time, once the ceremony ends only family photos will need to be taken- and then everyone can head off to party at the reception!

- Enjoy a moment of privacy

Once guests begin to arrive and the event kicks off, everything else will be a total whirlwind! Having a first look can provide an opportunity to breathe, soak each other in, and appreciate just how special this day is. Getting that first hug or even saying a prayer together works wonders in setting the mood for the rest of the day- not to mention the photos of such moments are priceless.

- Capture the emotion

There is no doubt tears are going to be shed at a wedding! This is just one more reason why a first look can be so valuable, as it provides an awesome opportunity for those raw and precious emotions to be captured for the couple while they are within an arm’s reach of each other. Of course, when walking down the aisle you’ll see the same emotions, but it’s a bit more difficult to get both of the individual’s faces in the same shot. With a first look, such photography hurdles can be avoided and those intimate moments can be captured in time to be cherished forever.

First Look Cons

- Keep the magic of tradition alive

To witness the initial reaction of everyone in the room as a beautiful bride walks down the aisle is, without a doubt, a moment of pure magic. It is completely alright if you would like to do a first look as a couple, however, it’s important to keep in mind that doing so may take away from the following of classic tradition and saving the first look as a surprise for during the ceremony.

- Emotional pressure

For some individuals, sharing their emotions can be an extremely sensitive thing. If couples are planning to do a first look, each individual should try to be sensitive to this fact and understand that their sweetheart may not have the same reaction as could be expected. This doesn’t mean the excitement isn’t there, it might just be showed in a different way!

- Early to bed, early to rise

To make the most of a first look, the wedding schedule may need to be adjustment in order to get the best set up possible. Scheduling can also, of course, be affected by how quickly everyone gets ready. Don’t feel the need to rush if everyone is running behind, however! It’s totally ok if the first look can’t happen as planned- there will always be time to get plenty of amazing pictures on your special day.

- Lighting may not be perfect

Similar to the con listed above, sometimes lighting for first looks just isn’t ideal. This is because more often than not, these shoots take time during full daylight, which can cause some complications. If the lighting is harsh, couples may need to take more photos after the ceremony anyway, so don’t be too discouraged if the first look doesn’t turn out as planned!

Key Points to Remember

A wedding is special.

It doesn’t matter what traditions you choose to follow, what colors you decide to use, or whether you have it in Bermuda versus the Arctic. All that matters is the joining of two lives together in a beautiful and wonderful way!

So, get that first look, or don’t. But just remember to have a fabulous time and soak in every single second from beginning to end.