What exactly is a "First Look", you ask? Well, this question actually comes up quite frequently. Some brides-to-be have heard about it, and some haven't at all. For more traditional brides, there's kind of a stigma that's associated with the First Look and more often than not, it's because they don't fully understand what it's all about and the many benefits that it allows. So first, let me explain what it is. During a "First Look", the groom is usually isolated somewhere until the bride is ready. With his back turned to her, the bride walks up to him at which point he will turn around and they will see each other for the first time on their wedding day. The photographers usually have on their long lenses at this point to be able to stand back and give you two some privacy (of course while capturing those beautiful "oh-my-gosh-you-look-so-amazing" moments with our cameras). Usually, I like to do this for about 10 minutes while the two of you just soak in the love. After we get some amazing pictures, we would usually include the bridal party and do those shots as well.
Though I am a HUGE fan of the First Look for many reasons, I don't think they are always the best option, especially if you have your heart set on seeing your bride/groom to be for the first time as you walk down the aisle. If that sounds like you and you are having an early afternoon wedding, or even a later wedding during the summer months and you're sure you are able to set aside enough time for photos while there's still ample light, maybe it's not for you! If this is not you, here are some reasons you may want to consider doing the First Look.
1) More often than not, the First Look is the ONLY chance a bride and groom get to be alone during their entire wedding day! If you choose not to do the First Look, time is usually limited and you will most likely have family formals, bridal party, and bride and groom portraits to do all during cocktail hour!
2) If you choose to do the First Look, you will be able to mingle and enjoy some of your cocktail hour with your friends, family, and guests that you maybe haven't seen in years!
3) You will be able to talk, kiss, and hug your soon to be bride/groom if you do the First Look! Usually, if you wait to see each other when you walk down the aisle, you can't kiss and hug and talk about how much you love each other because you immediately have to turn your attention over to your Priest/Officiant! Doing the First Look allows you to really take a few minutes and soak in everything you've waited for and worked so hard for!
4) It really produces some amazing photographs. My favorite favorite favorite photographs are un-posed, un-rehearsed... just raw reactions and emotions. And what reaction and emotion could be more intense than seeing each other for the first time on your wedding day?
5) Think about the timeline of your wedding... Will it be getting dark or be completely dark after your ceremony ends? If so, you should definitely consider doing the First Look! If it will be dark, the only option for photos may be indoors, which isn't usually the most flattering light, and may not be a large enough area to accommodate larger bridal parties.
There are many reasons for doing the First Look, and it's no surprise why Photographers love when their clients opt for doing them... But at the end of the day, it's YOUR wedding day! If you choose to do it, I am confident you won't regret it, as I haven't heard of a couple who has! If you choose the more traditional route, that's fine too. Maybe you could do a day after session instead? Just be sure to talk to your Photographer about your timeline and make sure you set aside plenty of time for photos, as they will be the only thing you have to remember your special day by when all is said and done! All that hard work and love should be documented and cherished forever in the most beautiful way!