What is a First Look?
The first time you see the person you are about to marry on your wedding day is referred to as a “first look.” Traditionally, the couple saw each other for the first time when one partner came down the aisle while the other was waiting at the altar. This tradition came from the times of arranged marriages. In an arranged marriage, the couple would see each other for the first time as they were about to say their vows. The tradition transformed into a superstition that it was bad luck for a groom to see his bride on their wedding day before the ceremony. In modern times, the tradition of seeing each other for the first time has transformed again! Now a popular custom at weddings is for a couple to have an intimate first look with just their photographer or maybe a few of their closest loved ones. Some couples enjoy reading letters from each other while holding hands, then seeing each other for the first time. That way, you can have the real moment captured through photos. Here are a few reasons I recommend having a first look as a wedding photographer and a couple of reasons why you would choose to have or not to have a first look.
3 Reasons You Should Have a First Look at Your Wedding
Having a first look earlier in the day is becoming more popular because couples can see each other earlier in the day and have beautiful photos of the special, emotional moment. In addition, as wedding photography has also become more common, having a first look early in the day leaves plenty of time for formal photos. I personally love when couples choose to have a first look at their wedding because it settles your nerves on your big day and gives you more time together on your wedding day!
A First Look is Intimate
Your first look is very public when you wait to see each other until the wedding ceremony. Your reaction will be in front of all of your loved ones and guests. Many couples prefer having an intimate moment where they can enjoy each other’s company without so many eyes on them. On your wedding day, you will be surrounded by your loved ones from the morning to the evening. You probably won’t get another quiet moment with your partner on your wedding day. Your first look is an opportunity to soak in the beautiful reality of your wedding day and have a quiet moment with the person you love most in the world.
You’ll Have More Photos of the Two of You
If you have a first look, you won’t have to avoid each other until the ceremony. You will be able to spend more time together on your special day, which also means you will have more photos of the two of you on your wedding day. You will have more flexibility in your timeline as well! This might mean that you can schedule bridal party and family portraits earlier in the day, before the wedding ceremony. Then you might be able to enjoy the cocktail hour with your new mate and your guests instead of taking photos directly following the ceremony. Overall, you will be able to spend more time together on your wedding day.
It Settles Your Nerves
Another reason I recommend having a first look is because seeing each other before your ceremony will settle your nerves. Your wedding day is filled with emotions and moments that will never be forgotten or recreated. Being able to spend some one-on-one time with the person you are about to marry will help you feel calm and grounded. It might also help to calm your nerves about being the center of attention. A lot of couples like having a first look without the attention of all of their guests. You will definitely feel more ready to say your vows if you spend a little bit of time with your favorite person by having a first look on your wedding day.
A First Look Might Not Be For You If…
A first look isn’t for everyone, though! Some couples choose to stick with the tradition of seeing each other for the first time as they walk down the aisle. If tradition is important to you, a first look might not be for you. Similarly, if you are having an intimate ceremony or eloping, you might choose to wait until the ceremony to see each other on your wedding day. Another reason you might decide not to have a first look is if you are having a very early ceremony. Logistically it might make more sense to see each other for the first time at your ceremony to save time.
Planning a wedding in the Lubbock, Texas area? I’d love to photograph all of the joyful moments of your wedding day. Get in contact with me here.
