First Look or NOT to First Look
First, I always ask both if a first look is what they want. Sometimes the expectation is to see the other walking down the aisle or seeing their fiancee standing at the end of aisle waiting for them.
Should you have a “first look session? “
It’s a new age, so it’s no longer considered bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding. What’s more, there are actually some pretty big advantages to a first-look session prior to the wedding. Not only are the bride, groom, bridal party and family in top form, the bride and bridesmaids’ hair and makeup are fresh, and the groom and groomsmen are still OK with being in their tuxes.
If you do decide to go with a pre-ceremony formal portrait approach, be sure to set aside 15 minutes of private time for just the two of you. These private moments, before you start taking more formal, posed portraits, are often the most special for the bride and groom. You are able to say a prayer together, or exchange meaningful gifts, relax and think about the moments to come. This healthy pre-ceremony atmosphere created a smooth, steady flow through the day’s events. Getting this step out of the way early in the day frees up the rest of the day to enjoy yourselves and your guests.
So, although sometimes a first look is a necessary option because of timing or season....it may not be what the other wants.
FIRST LOOK + PORTRAITS
What is a first look session?
This is the time of day where we set you up to see each other for the first time before you walk down the aisle.
- A first look session is sometimes a request:
- to either get the gitters out, or to be able to have a private moment together before saying "I do" in front of everyone - A first look session can also be a timeline factor. Let's say you're getting ready in the same location and need to drive to the ceremony together. Then a first look session is a great opportunity to stage the two of you seeing each other before heading out.
- A first look session may also be required because you're having a late fall or winter wedding and all of your photography is being done before the ceremony during the light of day.
- A first look session is another opportunity for fabulous portraits if your getting ready location is stellar and needs to be photographed too.
WARNING
If you're not prepared to get your dress somewhat dirty and plan on holding the train for all your pre-ceremony photography ....... you will be disappointed in your portraits.
It is essential for natural looking photography that you walk, maybe even run, spin and play with your dress and or veil. You will also be required to use your hands for emotional looking portraits, therefore letting the dress down will be essential.
Your makeup and hair may possibly change if it's raining or super windy.
Plan on 30 minutes pre-ceremony for hair and makeup touch ups.
DAD FIRST LOOK
Are you super close with your father and would love a moment alone with him after you finish getting ready?
Just let us know and we'll set something up super quick so you can have those emotional portraits with him.
- this is also a great opportunity for you to put on his boutonniere
- he may have some words of wisdom or advice for you and that's when you'll get those beautiful emotional photos too.
WEDDING CREW FIRST LOOK
Have you chosen to get dressed with your mom alone and now want your wedding crew to see you for the first time? Let me know and I can set that photo opportunity for you as well.
So, essentially it's up to you and the timeline you designed for your wedding day.
