10 Reasons Why You Should Do a First Look: A Must-Know Guide for Every Wedding
April 19th, 2023
Discover the Benefits of a First Look: Essential Tips for Every Bride and Groom
As a wedding photographer, capturing the beautiful moments of the couple is the most important part of your job. One of the best ways to make sure that the couple’s big day is captured in the most romantic and memorable way possible is by incorporating a first look session into their wedding schedule.
In this guide, we will discuss the top 10 reasons why every couple should consider doing a first look on their wedding day. From easing nerves to maximizing time, this guide will provide insights into why the first look is a must-have for every wedding.
What is a First Look?
A first look is a private moment between the couple before their wedding ceremony. Typically, the bride and groom meet at a designated location for a special moment of seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day. The moment is often captured by the photographer, making it an intimate and memorable experience for the couple to cherish.
Reason #1: Eases Pre-Wedding Jitters
Wedding days can be stressful, and nerves can run high. A first look allows the couple to see each other before the ceremony, which can help to calm any pre-wedding jitters. The moment can also be a time for the couple to share their excitement and love for each other, making it an unforgettable moment.
Reason #2: More Time for Photos
A first look allows for more time to take photos of the couple together. This is especially important if the couple has a tight schedule and wants to make sure they have plenty of photos to remember their special day. By having a first look, the couple can have more time to take photos before the ceremony, which can help to ease any time constraints.
Reason #3: Fresh Look
Wedding days can be long, and the couple may start to look tired by the end of the night. A first look allows the couple to capture photos while they still look their best. By taking photos earlier in the day, the couple can ensure that they have fresh and vibrant photos that capture their best selves.
Reason #4: More Intimate Moments
A first look is a private moment between the couple, which can be more intimate than seeing each other for the first time in front of all their guests. It’s a chance for the couple to share a special moment together, which can help to create a deeper connection and bond.
Reason #5: Capture Real Emotions
The first look is an opportunity for the couple to capture real emotions. It’s a moment where the couple can be themselves and show their true feelings for each other. The photographer can capture these emotions, making the photos more authentic and meaningful.
Reason #6: Better Lighting for Photos
The lighting can be challenging during the ceremony, especially if it’s indoors. A first look allows the photographer to capture photos in natural light, which can create more beautiful and natural-looking photos. This can also help to avoid harsh shadows and unflattering lighting.
Reason #7: Reduced Stress
A first look can help to reduce the stress of the wedding day. The couple can see each other before the ceremony, which can help to calm their nerves and ease any anxiety. It can also help to reduce the stress of the timeline and make sure everything runs smoothly.
Reason #8: Makes the Day More Memorable
A first look is a special moment that the couple will remember forever. It’s a time when they can share their love and excitement for each other, and it creates a memory that they will cherish for years to come. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that makes the wedding day even more special.
Reason #9: More Opportunities for Creative Shots
A first look provides more opportunities for the photographer to take creative shots of the couple. It allows for different angles and perspectives, and the photographer can capture more candid and natural moments. The couple can also express their personalities and individual style during the first look, making the photos more unique and personal.
Reason #10: Unique and Personal Experience
A first look is a unique and personal experience for the couple. It’s a moment that is just for them, and it allows them to spend some quality time together before the ceremony. It’s a chance for the couple to reflect on their love and commitment to each other, making it a meaningful and heartfelt moment.
Final Thoughts
I want to emphasize my love for first looks and my strong encouragement for them, but I never force my clients to do them. My priority is to provide you with all the necessary information so that you can make the best decision for your needs. However, if you express disinterest in a first look, I will inform you of its potential impact on your wedding day and leave the decision up to you. My goal is to ensure your happiness and capture beautiful photographs in the time we have available. It is worth noting that I have never had a couple regret doing a first look. If you opt out of a first look, it is important to schedule ample time between your ceremony and reception to allow for stunning photographs to be taken.