The question, “Should I do a first look at my wedding?” is something I hear over and over again from my clients. The short answer is, there is no right or wrong answer. For those that are driven by tradition, seeing each other at the altar is the way to go. However, for couples who want a special moment that’s all their own, and time to get group shots done before their ceremony, the first look is their best option. Want to hear my thoughts in video format? Go to my TikTok page here.
What does the term “first look” mean?
What are the benefits of the first look? Rather than sharing the moment with all of your family and guests, a first look gives you a rare chance to focus solely on your fiancé. During your ceremony, there will be a ton of things to take in, and it may be hard to have eyes only for each other. By creating a quiet moment and giving yourselves time for a private first-look celebration, you’ll feel more confident and ready to tie the knot when you meet at the end of aisle. Both of these moments will be emotional, and both will be very different. First looks are some of my favorite times to photograph, because the emotions are real and raw, and the chemistry of the couple is clear.
I also love what a first look can do for the schedule of events. Because most of the group portraits can be taken before the ceremony, couples who choose them can to join their party after signing their license, and having family formals taken during the cocktail hour (or done with the other group shots). Couples comment that the extra time allows them to freshen up, have a snack, or take a second to relax which can feel vital when things get overwhelming.
What if we decide not to have one? One of the things couples are often surprised by is the time needed to take good group portraits. Should you decide to wait to see each other right before your vows, it is likely we will have to cut the number of group portraits to be taken, or risk throwing your wedding off schedule.
Group portraits (bridal party, family and friends) can take at least 60 to 90 minutes, while portraits of the two of you can take up to an hour (and even more if we need to walk or drive to a location). You’ll also need to prepare for your big entrance to your reception and have some time to attend to little things, which can make a long shot list and a traditional cocktail hour incompatible.
How to create an exception to the rule: If you choose the traditional path, and see each other right before your vows, you may want to extend your cocktail hour to two hours or longer to provide enough time for important portraiture. For instance, you can get married in the morning and have your reception at a different location much later in the afternoon. The long gap will give everyone plenty of time to settle and change from their wedding attire into their party fashions. Giving you a perfectly good reason to get two outfits, and lots of time to have your photo taken in them.
Now that you have an overview of your options, I would love to talk with you about your wedding plans and what will work best for you. I have over a decade of experience working as a wedding photographer in Washington D.C. and the surrounding area, and I am ready to give you insider advice on everything you need to know to get married here.
