SHOULD I DO A FIRST LOOK?
What is a First Look?
A “First Look” is when you and your partner see each other privately in full wedding attire before the ceremony. It’s not for everyone, but if you don’t mind breaking tradition, there are some great reasons as to why you should consider adding a first look to your timeline.
You can have a first look with your wedding party, your parents, your partner, really anyone. I especially love parent ‘reveals’ and capturing the moment when the fam sees you all spruced up for your big day!
When it comes to first looks with your partner, it’s not for everyone. However, if you don’t mind breaking tradition there are some great reasons as to why you should consider adding a first look to your timeline.
It helps you both feel calmer. Once you see each other for the first time in your wedding attire, you’ll automatically relax and can truly enjoy the ceremony. This whole day is about YOU TWO being together, and you deserve a special moment alone!
It creates more photo options. A first look means that you can take photos in various different locations, leaving you with even more photos to choose from. This is especially helpful once you need to pick the photos you would like to print for your home. ALSO, you have the option of getting family AND wedding party photos out of the way before the ceremony!
First looks free up more time. Having a first look means you can get most of your couples shots completed early on. This allows you more time to spend with your guests during cocktail hour, alleviating some of the pressure on the day. You can also do your wedding party/family formals before the ceremony, leaving for more time to PARTY!
Amazing reaction photos! When there’s nobody around but the two of you, you both have the freedom to really express your true emotions. A first look also makes it easier to keep your composure when walking down the aisle.
MOST IMPORTANTLY
You get to share a truly precious moment together. A first look will be one of the few private moments that you get to share together on your wedding day. Every moment during your wedding day will be special and unique but there is something about sharing that first look alone that makes it simply magical!
Other Options
There are always options! First looks don’t have to always be with your partner. You can have one with your best friends, your fave fam member, or even opt for a “first touch”.
A ‘first touch’ is where each partner doesn’t see each other but hold hands or around a door or corner while either reading letter to each other out loud, to themselves, or reciting vows quietly to each other. It’s always a very special moment to capture as a photographer. This way they you can alleviate the nerves without breaking tradition!
Hope this cleared up a few questions about First Looks on the wedding day!
Cheers! - Mel
