What is a first look?
The first look is when a couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day. This intimate moment typically makes for an emotional photo opportunity. There are plenty of benefits on why I think a client should do it, so lets go over it!
Pro
A FIRST LOOK WILL ALLOW MORE TIME FOR PHOTOS . . . AND THEREFORE, MORE PHOTOS OVERALL
A first look allows you take a bulk of your photos before the ceremony. Normally, without a first look, photos are taken during the cocktail hour between your ceremony and reception , which is only 30 min. That means you’re more pressed for time since you’re working on a tight timeline and your guests are waiting on you and family who are dying to take a million photos with you. If you have at least 1.5 hours in-between ceremony and reception, then a traditntal route is an option. But if you have less than 1 hour in-between , I would without a doubt recommend doing a first look.
I typically get bridal party portraits, family photos, and a few romantics during this time. I'll save the rest of the romantics after ceremony during sunset. The main takeaway from this is that you'll have more time after the ceremony to actually enjoy cocktail hour .
IT CALMS THE NERVES
If you’re the type of person that gets nervous around crowds, doesn’t like to be the center of attention or gets anxious rather easily, then this is a great option for you. First Look will give you peace of mind knowing that your significant other will be there for you to help calm those nerves. Time and time again we see the stress fly away just after the bride sees the groom for the first time. It’s almost like a weight is lifted off their shoulder and the rest of the wedding day activities are a breeze.
Just because you do a first look, the SPECIAL FEELING DOESN'T JUST GO AWAY. The first look calms the nerves, but actually seeing your love of your life walk down the aisle for the very first time in front of friends and family, is completely two separate feeling.
Con
YOUR DAY WILL HAVE TO START MUCH EARLIER
Starting the photography process before the ceremony means you’ll need to get an early start on your entire day. If you have a big bridal party, be sure to have enough time for everyone to get ready.
