First Look Wedding (To Do or Not to Do)

A wedding ceremony and reception are filled with a million little moments, and while there can be plenty of stress and rush, couples often choose to take a moment to slow down before saying “I do” with a first look. Having a first look wedding moment is considered traditional to some, but there’s no rule on this. As you think about what is a first look at a wedding, you’ll be able to decide if it’s right for you. Whether couples do or don’t, there will be plenty of precious moments for the bride and groom to have on your wedding day.

What is a First Look at a Wedding?

Before the wedding processional begins, many couples choose to have a private moment together, a first look at each other before the wedding ceremony begins. A first look wedding moment usually takes place near where the ceremony will be held but somewhere apart from any guests who are arriving. It’s an emotional moment, and many couples choose to have their photographer document it, creating beautiful memories.

Should I Do a First Look at My Wedding?

Couples have been doing a first look for years, and it’s become a big trend in wedding photography, but that doesn’t make it a requirement. Every couple has to ask “Should I do a first look at my wedding?” There are several pros and cons to doing this on your wedding day, but don’t overthink it. There will be plenty of precious moments for the bride and groom to savor throughout the day.

Pros of a First Look on Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day can be a rush of different events filled with guests, so the biggest pro doing a first look is that you’ll have a private moment together. It gives you a chance to slow down and savor the intimacy of the day. The emotions during a first look are raw and honest, and first look wedding photos are truly romantic. During this time, you can take additional photos rather than waiting and trying to do them all after the ceremony. If you’re asking yourself “Should I do a first look at my wedding?”, consider your overall timeline and consult with your photographer.

Cons of Seeing Each other Before the Wedding Ceremony

Doing a first look isn’t for everyone. Some couples prefer the excitement and anticipation of not seeing each other until the ceremony begins. As you think through your timeline for the day, you’ll see that not doing a first look gives you more time to get ready, and with so much going on that day, sometimes skipping the first look makes everything simpler. As you talk with your photographer, you may find it challenging to find a private spot near the ceremony where you won’t be interrupted, and since first looks are typically earlier in the day, the lighting may be too harsh at this point to capture romantic photos.

First looks are precious moments the bride and groom can share on their wedding day, and as you look into what is a first look at a wedding, you’ll be able to decide if it’s right for you. However, at the end of the day, you’ll find that your day will be intimate and romantic regardless of whether you choose to do a first look.

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