Should I do a First Look?
Your wedding day is one of the most special moments of your life, and capturing the perfect photos is essential to hold onto those memories forever. One trend that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the "first look", where the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony. While this can lead to stunning and intimate photos, it's not for everyone. I will go over the pros and cons of doing a first look, as well as alternative options and tips for capturing the perfect shot.
Introduction to First Look Photos
What is a First Look Photo?
A “first look” is a private photo session between the bride and groom before the wedding ceremony. The groom sees the bride for the first time in her wedding dress, and the couple often shares a few intimate moments together while the photographer captures the interaction. The first look can take place in a location of the couple's choice and can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
Benefits of Doing a First Look Photo Shoot
Max & Zoe Queenston Heights Wedding
More Time for Bride and Groom Portraits
One of the biggest benefits of doing a first look is that it allows for more time for bride and groom portraits. After the ceremony, there is often a tight schedule to get all the family and group photos done. Doing a first look allows the couple to take their time and get the perfect shots without feeling rushed. Most couples find the first look was an essential part in keeping to their schedule and it significantly reduced the stress of trying to keep a tight schedule.
Reduced Anxiety and Nerves
Wedding days can be incredibly nerve-wracking, and the anticipation of seeing your partner for the first time can be overwhelming. A first look can help to ease anxiety and nerves for both the bride and groom. Sharing a private moment before the ceremony allows the couple to relax and enjoy the day with one another. It allows the couple to share some much needed words of encouragement, compliments, or just share an intimate moment that cuts the tension of the day and can set up the good vibes for the rest of the day.
Opportunity for a Private Moment
The first look provides an opportunity for the couple to have a private moment together on their wedding day. With all the excitement and commotion of the day, it can be difficult to find a quiet moment to connect. The first look photo shoot allows the couple to share an intimate moment and soak in the joy of the day together. With all of the nerves, excitement and other emotions everyone will be going through on the day, an intimate moment can make all the difference.
Reasons Against Doing a First Look Photo Shoot
Maintaining Tradition
Adam & Clare Buffalo Canoe Club Wedding
For some couples, maintaining tradition is important, and seeing your partner for the first time as you walk down the aisle is an essential part of the wedding day. A first look photo shoot may not be for everyone, and that's okay. It's important to do what feels right for you and your partner.
Not Wanting to Spoil the Big Reveal
For many couples, the moment when the bride walks down the aisle can be one of the most emotional and memorable parts of the wedding day. Doing a first look photo shoot may spoil that moment for some, and they may prefer to wait until the ceremony to see each other for the first time.
Logistical Challenges
Planning a first look photo shoot can be a logistical challenge, especially if the wedding ceremony and reception are in different locations. Coordinating transportation, timing, and logistics can be difficult, and it's important to work closely with your photographer to ensure a smooth experience.
How to Plan for a First Look Photo Shoot
Jake & Robyn Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens Wedding
Choosing the Right Location
Choosing the right location for your first look is important. It should be a location that is meaningful to you as a couple and reflects your personal style and preferences. It could also be at the venue you have chosen, since your venue would fit into the style you would like to capture on the day. It's also essential to consider the lighting and backdrop to ensure that the photos turn out stunning.
Coordinating with Your Photographer
Working closely with your photographer is critical to the success of the first look. They can help you choose the right location, time the shoot correctly, and ensure that the logistics are in place to make it a successful shoot. It's important to communicate your vision and preferences to your photographer so that they can capture the perfect shots.
Preparing for the First Look Experience
Preparing for the first look experience is crucial to ensuring that it is a success. It's essential to give yourself enough time to get ready and arrive at the location on time. It's also important to communicate with your partner about what to expect during the first look so that you can both feel comfortable and relaxed. Remember to enjoy the moment and soak in the joy of the day, use this time to express some words of encouragement, some compliments and just enjoy each others company.
Alternatives to a First Look Photo Shoot
While the first look has become increasingly popular in recent years, it's not for everyone. If you're looking for alternatives to the traditional first look, here are a few options to consider:
The Classic Approach
Crystal and Brandon’s Wedding at the Ancaster Mill
The classic approach to wedding photography involves the groom not seeing the bride until she walks down the aisle. This can lead to beautiful, emotional photos as the groom reacts to seeing his bride for the first time.
First Touch Photo
For couples who still want a private moment together before the ceremony, a first touch photo can be a great alternative to the first look. This involves the couple standing on opposite sides of a wall or door, holding hands or touching in some way, without actually seeing each other. This can be a very intimate moment that brings out a lot of emotion, however it still fits into the traditional wedding day where the couple does not see each other.
Bridal Party Reveal
If you're not comfortable with a first look between the bride and groom, consider doing a reveal with the bridal party instead. This can lead to some great photos as the bridesmaids and groomsmen react to seeing the bride or groom in their wedding attire for the first time.
Tips for Capturing the Perfect First Look Shot
If you do decide to go ahead with a first look, here are a few tips to help you capture the moment perfectly:
Scouting the Location in Advance
Before the wedding day, scout out the location where you'll be doing the first look. Look for good lighting, interesting backgrounds, and any potential obstacles you'll need to work around. If looking for lighting or posing is a little bit outside of your comfort zone, let your photographer know what your idea is and they can research the area for the best images possible.
Creating a Comfortable Setting
Make sure the setting for the first look is comfortable and relaxed. This will help both the bride and groom feel at ease and allow you to capture natural, candid moments. No need to be nervous for the shoot.
Final Thoughts on First Look Photo Shoots
Deciding whether or not to do a first look is a personal decision that should be based on your own preferences and priorities. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you make your decision:
Clare at the Buffalo Canoe Club
Considering Your Personal Preferences and Priorities
Think about what's most important to you on your wedding day. If seeing your fiancé for the first time as you walk down the aisle is a moment you've always dreamed of, then skip the first look. But if you want a private moment together before the ceremony and some extra time for photos, then a first look might be perfect for you.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Consider the pros and cons of a first look, including the potential for a more relaxed wedding day timeline, extra time for photos, and a chance for some alone time together before the ceremony. On the other hand, some couples feel that the first look takes away from the magic of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony.
Making a Decision That Feels Right for You
Ultimately, the decision to do a first look photo shoot should be based on what feels right for you as a couple. Whether you decide to go ahead with it or choose an alternative approach, trust your instincts and enjoy your wedding day to the fullest.
In the end, whether or not to do a first look is a personal decision that depends on your priorities, preferences, and wedding day timeline. Consider the benefits and drawbacks, explore alternative options, and work closely with your photographer to create a memorable and meaningful photo experience that suits you and your partner. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can capture stunning photos that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will doing a first look photo shoot spoil the moment of seeing my partner for the first time at the ceremony?
Not necessarily. Many couples find that the first look actually enhances the moment of seeing each other at the ceremony, as it allows them to alleviate any nerves beforehand. Additionally, some photographers are skilled at capturing the moment of the bride walking down the aisle even if the groom has already seen her.
What if we don't have enough time for a first look photo shoot?
If you're running short on time, consider alternative options like a first touch photo or doing a bridal party reveal instead. These can still provide beautiful and memorable moments without requiring as much time.
Do we need a special location for the first look photo shoot?
It can help to choose a location that is meaningful, beautiful, and private. However, any location can work as long as it meets your needs and preferences. Your photographer can offer guidance on finding the right spot, or making any space magical enough for the shoot.
What should we wear for the first look photo shoot?
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful. Many couples choose to wear their wedding attire, although this is recommended, it is not necessary. The most important thing is to wear something that feels true to what you would like to capture on your wedding day.
