What is a first look?
When you’re planning your wedding, it’s important to weigh all of your options before making any decisions. One big decision is whether or not to have a first look.
A first look is a moment during a wedding day when the bride and groom see each other for the first time. This usually happens before the ceremony, and it’s a very special moment that’s often captured by photographers. It’s also a moment when the bride and groom are often left alone. This is when they have a chance to talk privately, hug, kiss, and share some quiet moments before the ceremony begins.
There are a few reasons why couples might choose to do a first look. For one, it can help to calm nerves before the ceremony. Seeing each other beforehand can make the rest of the day feel less rushed and more relaxed. Plus, couples often find that doing a first look makes for better photos since they’re not as rushed or nervous as they might be during the ceremony itself.
If you’re considering a first look on your wedding day, talk to your fiance and see if it’s something that would work for both of you.
Many couples are opting for a first look on their wedding day instead of the traditional method of waiting until the ceremony to see each other. Here are the top reasons why this trend is gaining popularity:
Top reason #1: A first look allows you to see each other before the ceremony.
It is a beautiful way to capture the couple’s emotions and excitement. When they first lay eyes on each other it is hard to miss that instant spark. As a photographer it is one of my top moments to capture.
Top reason #2: A first look can help calm your nerves.
When you have that nervous energy running through you there is nothing like the embrace of your soulmate to bring you back down. Once you are calm it allows you to fully be yourself throughout the full ceremony and reception, which allows me to get even better photos!
Top reason #3: First looks are more intimate than seeing each other at the altar.
You are about to make the biggest commitment in your life and what better way to start the ceremony than having that 15 minutes of intimate connection? Away from all your friends and family watching you are able to share that special moment. Oftentimes my couples don’t even talk, but you can tell they are fully expressing themselves to each other. Words sometimes just aren’t needed. I guess that’s why they say a picture is worth a thousand words.
Top reason #4: You can take your time with a first look.
Well not all the time! But, it will be a moment where no one is coming up to you both and you can fully be present with each other. Often couples describe this moment like time just stands still, and that is felt through the photos.
Top reason #5: First looks allow you to get more photos out of the way.
For the bride and groom that want to actually be a part of the wedding celebration, then this is your best option. One of the biggest frustrations couples have is missing out on their cocktail hour and being with everyone that came to celebrate with them due to taking photos. The photos are absolutely important, but this is a fantastic way to make sure the important photos are captured and a single moment isn’t missed.
Top reason #6: Share private wedding vows.
At the end of the day this is about the both of you and the commitment you are making to each other. With that being said there most likely are vows you would rather express to each other in private versus on display. This intimate moment provides the perfect setting to allow private vows exchanged to each other.
Conclusion: Why a first look might be the best choice for you.
In conclusion, a first look might be the best choice for you because it allows you to have a private moment with your partner, it can help to reduce wedding day nerves, and you will get to see your partner in their wedding attire before everyone else. If you are considering a first look on your wedding day, talk to your partner and see if it is something that would work for both of you. That is what matters most. This is your wedding, so make sure everything you are doing is best for the both of you.
From my perspective as a photographer I am all for the first look. I just know the special moments and photos that are a result of it and I don’t want any couple to miss out on that. Being able to always come back to those photos and have them bring you right back to that moment is priceless.
I hope this breakdown brought some clarity for you and will help you make your decision. With that being said, if you would like to learn more about what it would look like working with me to capture this special day I invite you to click the link below.
Capturing your special moments,
Oxana Rox
