The Logic Behind the First Look

The tradition of bride and groom not seeing one another before the ceremony is, honestly, a bit outdated.  While I fully respect the decision to wait until the ceremony, and will never go against someone’s wishes for their wedding, I happen to think the benefits of a First Look heavily outweigh the more traditional alternative.

So what is a First Look?  It is a moment on your wedding day, before the ceremony, in which you and your fiancee privately see one another (with a photographer nearby to capture any emotional reactions, of course.)  I usually direct couples to a private and beautiful place, have the groom turn his back, and allow the bride to sneak up behind him.  I stay far away with a long lens, capturing reactions and expressions.  After you’ve had about 5 minutes to chat and connect, we move on to taking portraits.

Why would you choose do this?  Usually, the First Look is intended to maximize the time you’ll have for photography.  If your schedule has you going straight from ceremony to reception, it’s nice to do your photos earlier in the day so that you don’t have to miss any part of the party.  It’s also helpful for evening ceremonies, as taking photos earlier in the day will make better use of the natural light.

Another bonus is that you’ll both be calmer for the ceremony.  Those pre-ceremony nerves will be soothed by seeing your fiancee before the big moment.  You’ll also have a moment with your soon-to-be-spouse to chat with one another about what the day has been like and how you’re feeling.  If you see eachother for the first time at the top of the aisle, there won’t be much time for chitchat :)

Worried that when you walk down the aisle it won’t be special?  Don’t be.  In my experience the First Look nearly always produces a greater reaction at the ceremony than not doing one.  Sounds counterintuitive, I know.  But if your husband-to-be hasn’t seen you yet, as you walk down the aisle he might be focused on what your dress looks like or how you’ve done your hair.  If he’s already seen you earlier in the day, he tends to be more present to the emotions of the moment.  I’ve seen more guys tear up during the ceremony after a First Look than if they haven’t seen the bride at all that day. 

The final reason for the First Look is that you’ll have more time for photos, and probably better photos as a result.  Rather than rushing to get to the reception, you will have time to take quality photos – and you’ll have more portraits as a result.  Please note that I always give couples at least 30 minutes before the ceremony to re-primp, relax, and be tucked away so that guests don’t see them.

On a personal note, this is not just the opinion of a photographer who wants you to create a better schedule.  John and I did a first look on our wedding day and I’m so glad we did.  Buit if it’s not for you, don’t worry – you’ll still get great photos and have a fantastic wedding :)