Planning your wedding is an exciting journey filled with an endless amount of decisions, from the venue to the flowers, and of course, the photography. One trend that has been gaining popularity here that's been the norm in the US for years is the "first look" photo session. I've actually only covered two weddings that decided to go for a first look, so far abd I have another few coming up before the end of the year. One of the first looks was just a few weeks ago and I absolutely loved everything about it.
It's definitely better suited to civil/humanist ceremonies where the ceremony and party are all at the same venue and even more so when the bride is also getting ready at the venue, but if you're on the fence about whether to include this moment in your wedding day, here are several reasons to consider it.
1. Capturing Genuine Emotion
A first look session offers an intimate moment for you and your partner to see each other before the ceremony. These private moments allows you to share your excitement and emotions away from the eyes of your guests. With just me peeping on from a distance, capturing authentic reactions & creating beautiful, candid images that reflect the true joy of the moment.
2. A More Relaxed Timeline
Weddings can often feel rushed, with a tight timeline that leaves little room for spontaneity. A first look allows you to complete your couple’s portraits ahead of time, alleviating some pressure after the ceremony. This means more time to enjoy the festivities with friends and family, making your day feel less chaotic and more enjoyable.
3. Creating Memorable Moments
The first look is not just about seeing each other; it's about creating a memorable experience. You can personalize this moment to fit your relationship—whether it’s a private location, a special gift exchange, or even a favorite song playing in the background. These unique touches will enhance the emotional significance of the moment and create lasting memories.
4. Stunning Photos with Natural Light
One of the key benefits of a first look is the opportunity to take advantage of natural light , particularly important this time of year with shorter days. Depending on your wedding timeline, and location of your portraits & distance to your hotel, you can be running into falling light. So a first look allows you to schedule your photos to any time that suits you, resulting in stunning images that are beautifully lit.
5. Reducing Pre-Ceremony Nerves
Weddings can be nerve-wracking, and a first look can help calm those jitters. Seeing your partner before the ceremony can be a comforting moment that alleviates stress, or allows heart felt moments for just the two of you. Sharing a few quiet minutes together allows you both to breathe and reconnect, setting a positive and more relaxed tone for the rest of the day.
6. A Unique Tradition
While many couples still opt for the traditional approach of not seeing each other until the ceremony, the first look is becoming a cherished modern tradition. It allows couples to break away from convention and create a wedding experience that is uniquely theirs. This personal twist can make your day feel more authentic and true to your relationship.
7. Time for Additional Photos with Loved Ones
With the couple portraits completed before the ceremony, you’ll have more time to capture moments with family and friends. This ensures you have plenty of opportunities to include all the important people in your lives without feeling rushed, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
8. More time to chill and party
For me the biggest draw from having a first look is , that when family photos are finished your ready to hit the drinks reception, your portrait session is done, your beautiful ceremony is complete and you can join everyone in high spirits to enjoy the entertainment you've sent a few yrs planning (and paying for), it sets a fun filled tone for the evening.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether or not to have a first look photo session is a personal decision that should align with your vision for your wedding day. However, the benefits—ranging from capturing authentic emotions to creating a more relaxed timeline—make it a compelling option worth considering. If you’re looking to infuse your wedding day with intimacy, joy, and stunning photographs, a first look could be the perfect choice for you.
Karen
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