Some couples opt for a First Look while others do not even consider it. It’s important to understand what a First Look is, and how it can be beneficial from the photographer and videographer’s point of view!
The First Look has become a trend among weddings and the last few years. Many brides fear the First Look because they do not feel that the impact of her coming down the aisle will be the same. I do not believe that The First Look takes away from the groom’s reaction of the bride coming down the aisle, but it does change who witnesses it. A couple’s reasons for not doing a First Look may vary and is ultimately their decision on their wedding day!
Here’s the definition of a First Look and the purpose:
1. An intimate moment before all of the excitement of your wedding day
A First Look is an intimate moment between the bride and the groom before all wedding day festivities begin. Many couples pray, cry, hug, or share some sweet words between each other during this time. As the photographer, I am there to capture these moments so that you can cherish them later. The First Look is typically done out of the sight of others, so they are not interrupted by others.
2. Increase in Bride and Groom Portraits
The First Look allows the bride and groom to receive approximately 30-40% more portraits from the wedding day because additional time is included in the wedding day timeline for this moment. Because of Daylight Savings Time, a First Look becomes necessary for wedding ceremonies that begin after 3 PM in the fall and the winter months.
3. Time Saver During Wedding Day
A First Look can be a timesaver. Planning of the First Look helps to ensure that the schedule does not fall behind on the wedding day. Because the First Look is done prior to the ceremony, the bride and groom are dressed around 1-2 hours earlier than normal. If the schedule is thrown off, the First Look can be skipped and allow for the ceremony to still begin on time.
The First Look will also allow for the bride and groom to enjoy cocktail hour with their guests, allow for bridal party portraits and some family formals prior to the ceremony!
There are also alternatives to a First Look with the groom — many brides opt for a First Look with the bridesmaids, or a Daddy-Daughter First Look. Other options are a Gift Exchange or a Blind-folded prayer. While these may not result in an increase of additional bride and groom portraits, it does allow the the creation of personal moments to be documented by the photographer/videographer and cherished for many many years.
Daddy-daughter first looks are near and dear to my heart!
This groom’s reaction was priceless! And he even cried when she walked down the aisle at the ceremony!
