First Looks have really become popular on wedding days, but when we ask couples if they would like to have a First Look on their wedding day about half of them say they have never heard of it or don’t really understand what it is or how it works so I thought I would share a little bit about it…
What is a “First Look?”
A “First Look” is a private moment we set up and photograph for the bride and groom to see each other prior to the ceremony. Traditionally, the bride and groom don’t see each other until the bride walks down the aisle where the groom sees her for the first time. With a First Look you get to enjoy this moment together without an audience. If you do opt for a “First Look” I HIGHLY recommend having a second shooter to get multiple perspectives.
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What do we have to do?
Nothing, except show up. We will scout for a location prior to the first look taking place. When it’s time we will bring out the groom first and set him up in the perfect spot where he won’t see you coming. As we bring you out for your reveal, we will take a quick moment to get ourselves positioned for photos and signal you to approach your groom. You may tap him on the shoulder, hug him from behind or simply say something to indicate that he can turn around. Then…it’s all about you two. A few minutes where you can take it all in, seeing your significant other for the first time in their wedding attire, expressing your excitement with one another. Sharing these few moments of alone time together is actually quite precious because you really don’t get any alone time together on your wedding day.
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What happens after?
We usually jump into some photos of the two of you since your hair and makeup are freshest and you’re looking your very best. Some couples choose to leave it at that, but some like to go right into bridal party and family photos to get those out of the way so they can head right to the reception following the ceremony. This can also be a great time to exchange gifts together, read each other a letter or cheers with a glass of wine! You can make it whatever you want it to be.
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So….should WE have a “First Look?”
The choice is absolutely yours. Probably half of our couples have a First Look and we totally understand that it’s not for everyone. If having that traditional moment down the aisle is really important to you then we are all for it. We would never pressure a couple into doing something they don’t want to do.
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Let’s recap…
Pros:
>> You get to enjoy a few moments of truly alone time for the two of you <<
>> Photos can be taken when you’re hair and makeup is the freshest and you are looking your very best <<
>> Formal Photos can be completed prior to the ceremony giving you much more freedom and relaxation following the ceremony or flexibility in your wedding day schedule <<
Cons:
>> Your friends and family won’t get to see your reactions to seeing each other coming down the aisle <<
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Whether or not you choose to have a “First Look” I recommend scheduling at least 5-10 minutes of alone time for your wedding day. The two of you will be surrounded by people the entire day and having a few minutes of time for just the two of you will allow you to relax and soak it all in.
Happy Wedding Planning!
Moriah
What else do you want to know about in planning your wedding day?
Shoot me an email [ kadwellphotography@gmail.com ] or leave a comment below!
