The "First Look"

Posted by Michelle

When developing a time line with a couple, the first and most important question I ask is if they are going to see each other before the ceremony. This can make or break a time line for a wedding day. Why is this so important? If a couple is waiting to see each other until after the ceremony, that also means the majority of the photography must wait until after the ceremony. When you do your photography can greatly affect your guests' experience.

I highly encourage couples to do a "First Look" before the ceremony. A First Look is where the couple meets up (usually where the ceremony will take place) and shares a private moment together before all the festivities begin. The reasons I suggest this are many:

• Intimacy - A wedding is THE most intimate moment of a couple's life together. Personally I would rather see my groom for the first time alone than in front of 150 people. It gives you a chance to say some private words to each other before the big moment.
• Nerves - I have had so many brides nervous about crying while walking down the aisle and because of that not remembering the moment. It can be very overwhelming and seeing your groom beforehand can help to calm those nerves. I still love to see a bride and groom choke up while reciting vows and even with a First Look this still happens.
• Photographs - Some of the sweetest and most emotional photographs I see from weddings are the ones from the First Look. There is always so much raw emotion when a couple sees each other knowing they will soon be husband and wife.
• Time Lines and Guest Consideration - I am a HUGE believer in being courteous to your guests. Yes, it is your big day but your guests are taking their time to come and celebrate with you and bring you gifts. It is your responsibility as the host to think of them and their comfort. After all haven't you been planning this big party with their experience in mind? Doing a First Look, in order to take pictures before the ceremony, helps to make the guests experience very positive. Why would that matter? If you end up doing pictures between the ceremony and reception, that can leave a giant gap in your time line. Thus, making your guests wait an hour or two for the reception to start and for them to enjoy dinner.
  

Doing a First Look or not can be a very personal decision for some couples, both because of tradition and beliefs. It's not for everyone but is something to consider when planning out your wedding day.

Here are some adorable pictures from Jenn Dean Photography...