As pretty much any photographer will tell you, first looks are fabulous for the photos - you get to have photos of the first look, plus get all the photos out of the way before the ceremony, and since you're together for more of the day you'll get more photos together. While all of those are true, and pretty valid reasons to do a first look, there's much more to it than that. It's not just about the photos, it's about making your day better.
When you choose a first look, you get to spend a lot more of your wedding day together. You might not realize it until the day is over, but it's kind of shocking how little time you get alone together on what should be a day that's all about the two of you. If you're separated before the ceremony, then rushed through photos after, and try to visit with your guests during the reception, that just doesn't leave a whole lot of time alone. With a first look, we can carve out 20-30 minutes for just the two of you, alone. I'm there to document it of course, but you won't hear a peep out of me. I take photos of both your reactions, but stay completely out of your way and give you time to talk, hug, kiss, cry, exchange gifts, or whatever else you've decided to do. Some couples have written letters or private vows to each other and read them together after the first look. A few have prayed together or read scripture. Some just want a quiet few minutes alone.
Right after your first look is usually a fabulous time for a few romantic portraits. It's a time when you can just focus on each other without your friends or family distracting you, without any worry about the little details of the day. When you're fully focused on each other, that allows me to capture photos of the two of you that really reflect your love for each other, not just what you looked like that day.
If either of you are shy or just don't like to be the center of attention, a first look is a great time to really appreciate that moment without a hundred pairs of eyes on you. Also, if you're nervous, a first look can really help you calm down and prepare for the ceremony (it also gets some of those happy tears out before the ceremony!)
Another reason to do a first look, which I actually already mentioned, is that the portraits can all be done before the ceremony. The advantages to that are that your hair and makeup are fresher, and after the ceremony you can just relax and celebrate with your friends and family instead of rushing through photos before the reception. It keeps the focus where it should be, without interrupting the flow of the celebration to get more photos. The photos should be about the day, the day shouldn't be all about the photos.
Have you read all this and still don't think a first look is for you? No worries! Your wedding day is your day, not mine! I'm there to capture it however it unfolds so the photos will tell your story, because that's what's important.
If you're looking for a wedding (or family) photographer in the Wabash Valley or surrounding areas, I'd love to hear from you! Click here to contact me, or go check out my Facebook page or Instagram. Click like or follow while you're there!
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