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Four Reasons to do a First Look

If you’re in the midst of planning your wedding, sooner or later someone will ask you if you’re doing a first look. There’s no hard-and-fast rule about first looks, as every couple is different, but as a photographer, I see some specific benefits in adding one to your wedding day timeline.

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Reasons to do a First Look

Calm the Nerves

A first look gives both of you a chance to eliminate some nerves before the ceremony. Walking down the aisle, you might be hit with the magnitude of everything, seeing all your guests and your groom waiting for you. Taking a few moments alone with him is a great way to take the edge off.

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More Magic

There’s all sorts of magic involved in a wedding ceremony: your father handing you off to your groom, your vows, your guests’ reactions, the first kiss… However, taking time alone allows you both to have a moment for yourselves, by yourselves. You don’t have to pay attention to what’s going on around you — just be present and let the emotions flow.

Take Time

My wife and I chose not to do a first look. In hindsight, I wish we had because it would have been a chance to reset and take a break together. Planning a first look also gives you more time after your ceremony to get to other important parts of the wedding — namely, cocktails and hors d’ouevres.

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Keep it Fresh

Everything about your outfit will look best at the beginning of the day: your hair, makeup, flowers, gown… If you’re out and about on a hot summer day, waiting to do your couple’s portraits until after the ceremony could leave you looking a little “wilty” if you don’t have time and space to freshen up. A first look near the top of your timeline allows your photographer a chance to capture the two of you when you look your best.

If you’d like to discuss the pros and cons of adding a first look to your wedding schedule, I’m always happy to consult in person or by Zoom! You can get in touch with me here.