MARYLAND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | MONDAY MEMOS | THE FIRST LOOK
MARYLAND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | MONDAY MEMOS | THE FIRST LOOK
One of the biggest things to consider on your wedding day is whether or not to have a “First Look.” This plays a large role in your photography timeline, options for photos, and when you will see one another for the first time. There are arguments for and against having a First Look, and today we’re going to talk about some of them!
First of all, what IS a “First Look?”
A First Look is when a couple arrange an intimate reveal of their wedding garb to one another at the same time. This takes place before the wedding ceremony, breaking the traditional viewing as one would walk down the aisle. This personal moment typically takes place in a private area and includes only the couple and the team capturing the day.
PROS
Here are a few PRO’s for having a First Look:
- You get to see the one you love, sooner! Doing this can alleviate nerves, process your emotions between just the two of you, and enjoy a few moments alone. It may be the only time during the day you can do so. A First Look can give you the chance to take a breather to soak it all in before the day takes off.
- You have the opportunity to take all of your photos at the beginning of the day. Your make-up and hair will still be flawless, and you’ll even have time to touch up before the ceremony. This also results in MORE photos, period. The ability to work with a couple both before and after the ceremony can enhance your wedding content both in photo and video.
- If your wedding is later in the day and your cocktail hour is during or after sunset, this will ensure the ability to have natural light for your portraits.
- Having already been ready for the First Look and the photos that follow, there is absolutely no chance you’ll be late for your wedding ceremony.
- If you wrap up photos before the wedding, you have the opportunity to JOIN your cocktail party! Pocket 30 minutes having drinks with your friends before your grand entrance. Hug Grandma. Steal a moment away with your new spouse. This is your party!
CONS
As for CON’s for having a First Look:
There really aren’t any! Unless you are genuinely attached to the idea of a traditional reveal moment, there are no downsides to having a First Look. What do you think? What are the upsides and downsides of a First Look? Let me know in the comments below.
-Ash
Photography | Ashton Kelley Photography
Venue | Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel
Florals | Stylish Occasions by Amanda
Dress | Anne Barge
Leave a Reply
July 17th, 2017 at 9:28 am
Love this! I always vote YES to a first look! One day when I get married I will 100% be doing one!!
July 17th, 2017 at 9:38 am
Preach girl! We LOVE first looks. It is so much more intimate and really gets the rest of the day rolling!
July 17th, 2017 at 10:01 am
I love the connection that the bride and groom have during the first look. It’s more intimate!
July 17th, 2017 at 10:03 am
Can I add that if you are super emotional like me, a first look gives you the chance to get your face right after crying off your makeup too!
July 17th, 2017 at 10:41 am
I love first looks, and support the idea fully! Gives so much more time later to mingle with your guests, and definitely helps with three nerves.
July 17th, 2017 at 10:46 am
The hotel makes these pictures pop!!! Also good insight on the first look.
July 17th, 2017 at 10:52 am
Great post!! I’m all for the first look!! Enjoy the party you planned!!
July 17th, 2017 at 11:17 am
I love this. I’m a big fan of first looks!! I think everyone should do them!
July 17th, 2017 at 11:37 am
This is a great post. We always ask our couples what feels right to them. We never push for one over the other. I would say our couples are about 50/50. I do agree a first look is great if having a later wedding. The lighting is much better.
July 17th, 2017 at 11:42 am
First looks really are the best!!! Gorgeous images!!! Loveeee
July 17th, 2017 at 12:47 pm
YESS! First Looks all the way! Plus, who wants to walk down the aisle & just stand next to your husband, not able to talk!?
July 17th, 2017 at 10:11 pm
I think my favorite upside to a first look is just how relaxed couples are when they do one. There’s so much time for them to just hang out the two of them, everything is done ahead of time, and they get to actually enjoy their reception! There really aren’t any downsides at all to one.