A first look is a special moment when the bride and groom see each other for the first time before the wedding ceremony. This can be done privately, with just the couple and the photographer, or with close family members and bridal party members. It's a modern tradition for couples who value natural and candid wedding photography. While some couples prefer to wait until the ceremony to see each other, there are several benefits to having a wedding first look so let's dive in!
Capture a beautiful and private moment
A wedding first look allows the couple to have a private moment together before the day gets busier and more hectic. This can be a special time for the couple to calm their nerves, unwind, and enjoy each other's company before the ceremony. It can also be a great opportunity for the couple to exchange personal vows or gifts in a more intimate setting. Capturing natural moments and emotions as they happen is key to a candid style of wedding photography and a large part of our style.
Enjoy a quiet, stress free moment together
Seeing each other before the ceremony can be a calming experience, and it can help the couple feel more relaxed and comfortable leading up to the ceremony. A first look can give you and your partner a special moment to enjoy together, which can help you both feel more connected and present throughout the day. This naturally lends to natural and organic photos as well!
Get family and bridal party involved
A wedding first look can be a great way to involve family and bridal party members in the pre-wedding festivities. If the couple chooses to have family and bridal party members present for the first look, it can be a special bonding experience for everyone involved. It also makes for great candid reaction photos!
Spend more time at cocktail hour
A wedding first look also allows for more time for photographs. With a first look, the couple can take some or all of the formal photos before the ceremony, leaving more time to connect with guests and family during cocktail hour. As someone who focuses on documentary and candid style wedding photography, this allows me to take more candid photos at cocktail hour as well! It helps the day flow much more smoothly and you end up with more photos of the day too.
In conclusion...
A wedding first look can be a beautiful and meaningful addition to any wedding day. It provides an opportunity for the couple to connect, allows for more time for photographs, eases nerves and anxiety, and can involve loved ones in the pre-wedding festivities. As a candid style wedding photographer, it allows for more natural and emotional photos to be added to the story of the day!