Should I Have a First Look?
What is a first look?
Although they’re pretty popular these days, if you haven’t been to a lot of weddings or you’re just getting into planning, you might not have considered a first look yet. So let us be the first to recommend a first look to you! A first look is time, usually about 15 minutes, set aside for the bride to show off her look to her groom. However, over the years, first looks have evolved and it is common to have different kinds of first looks or even multiple first looks.
Why have a first look?
Your Big Day will go by so quickly. By having a first look with your Spouse-to-be, you are giving each other time to have an intimate moment just the two of you. It seems crazy to say, but trust us when we say that building in some time for just the two of you is so important. Call us biased; it also makes for some beautiful photos.
Your Wedding Day is such a special, once in a lifetime moment and it is preserved throughout photos, videos, and all your own memories. Creating space for just the two of you will give you more time together. You could write letters and read them, celebrate with your vows, or even leave space for a dance. We’ve seen it all and no matter what you choose, carving out time for each other is so special and something we advocate for our couples.
As photographers, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the swoon-worthy, candid photos we get to capture when it is just the two of you. The photos are some of the most intimate of the entire day. It might be the only part of the day where you get to enjoy each other’s company without interruption and experience the joy, love, and everything else.
But what about that moment walking down the aisle?
You still get that moment, just without the pressure of everyone watching your first time seeing each other. You get to have all the love and excitement without all of your family and friends watching you.
Traditional First Look with Groom
We love a traditional first look. This is a moment for just the bride and groom to step away from the chaos and pressure. It is a moment that gives space for you to just be in the moment together. Oftentimes, couples express having limited time together to let it set in that they’re getting married. A traditional first look gives you time to do just that.
First Look with Dad
For most little girls, our dads are our very first love. I know that I thought I would marry my dad when I was a toddler until I understood what that meant. Doing a first look with dad honors that he was the first love of your life, the man that taught you what to look for in a partner, and how women should be treated. It’s such a sweet moment to share with the him and to look back on down the road.
First Look with Kid(s)
If couples have kids, one of our absolute favorite first looks is with them. It gets all the kiddos involved in a way that they will be excited for, and gives them a spotlight too.
First Look with Brother
A first look with an emotional reaction sure to catch you off guard, is doing a first look with your brother. When we did a first look with Alexis & her brother, we were surprised with the tears and stunning support and love that came from the moment. It truly is so special to be able to include these moments in your timelines and galleries.
First Look with Bridesmaids
If you are looking for a fun way to get candid reactions from your bridal party, look no further than a first look with bridesmaids. It makes for the most fun and heart-warming moments with the ladies that have been your ride or die up to vowing “till death do us part.”
First Touch
What if you still want the first moment you see each other to be walking down the aisle? The first touch is for you! This one requires a little more planning on your photographer’s part, but the photos are dreamy, and the authenticity captivating. During a first touch, you won’t see each other, but you can hold hands and talk from around a corner. Couples often write letters and read them, either silently or to each other, especially if they’re not writing their own vows.
