Why Should I do a First Look?

One of the fastest growing trends in the wedding industry is one that completely goes against our standard American tradition. So why is this semi-controversial trend, one that is wrapped in so much mystery and superstition, catching on so quickly?

Some people just can't wait!

The ultimate question anyone wants to ask a couple doing a first look is... why? Wouldn't you want to be surprised and allow your loved ones in on that reaction? Some grooms simply don't want the pressure and would rather get it over with before the ceremony begins. I've had grooms who were incredibly shy, absolutely beaming in the shots where they turn around and capture that first glimpse of their bride to be.

It's incredibly private

Having your wife revealed to you in front of an audience on your wedding day is just as intimate as describing her lingerie on your wedding night. Okay, maybe not that extreme. But it is one way a groom described his protectiveness over his bride. She's there for me, and I want to get to see her before everyone else does. I already have to share her the entire day, so that moment where I'm blown away by her beauty, by her willingness to share her life with me, I want to experience that alone, before everything else sinks in.  

You know they're the only person who can calm your nerves

When you and your fiance are getting ready you're usually surrounded by some of the most important people in your life, except THE most important person. So before stepping in front of everyone you've ever known since birth to say your vows, it's nice to regroup with the person who made this all possible, the reason you're here. You get a moment to embrace one another and breathe deep before taking the plunge together. 

You don't want to miss cocktail hour!

Usually if you have your photographer begin shooting at the ceremony, you have to get your formal wedding party and family photos in before the reception begins. Which usually leaves those crazy 60 minutes in between both events. Cocktail hour is where you get to mingle with your guests in a more laid back environment with bar tables and minimal seating. Think about it. During the reception, you're gliding from table to table, where most people remain in their assigned seat waiting for their 15 seconds to congratulate you. Not really much time to converse with the people you're most excited to see. If you get all of your formals done before the ceremony, you'll be relaxing with a drink in hand and food in your belly as soon as you say "I do". 

Timing and Lighting

Most weddings have the following time frame... 

5-6PM Ceremony

6-7PM Cocktail Hour

7-11PM Reception

By the time you get to cocktail hour for photos, the lighting may or may not be as ideal as it would be prior to the ceremony. When shooting earlier you have more time, which means more poses, locations and possibilities! Always take into consideration the time of year, a December wedding might be pitch black by the time cocktail hour rolls around.

 These are all legitimate reasons our clients have shared with us and derive from real conversations. So tell us, are there any reasons in particular you chose to do a first look? Let us know in the comments!