If you and your betrothed are thinking about catching a glimpse of each other before your big moment at the altar, you’re not alone. In fact, according to a 2017 survey by The Knot, 44 percent of couples decided to forego the tradition of waiting to see each other on their wedding day and opted for a “First Look” instead.
While first look wedding photography is definitely catching on, it’s still the subject of great debate. Not sure if it’s right for you? Consider these pros and cons before you decide.
Pro: It Will Give Your Photographer More Flexibility
The more flexibility you can give your photographer on your wedding day, the better your photos will be. Couples who choose first look wedding photos have more time to get a variety of different shots.
Natural light also plays a very important role in the outcome of your photos. Depending on the season, waiting until after your ceremony to take photos can mean you’ll have limited time and might miss out on getting all of the shots you really want.
Con: It Could Damper Your “Big Moment”
There’s definitely something to be said about the breathtaking moment when you first make eye contact on your wedding day. Many brides worry that having seen each other before that magical moment when you step out onto the aisle can take away some of the excitement.
If you’re a traditionalist, you might want to skip the first look. However, you will need to talk to your photographer about the timing of your post-ceremony photos and whether there are any concerns that need to be addressed.
Pro: It Can Help Ease Your Nerves
If you’re super-nervous or you think you’re going to be overly-emotional, having a first look will help you get the jitters out of the way so you can focus during your ceremony. It also gives you a few private moments before you share the rest of your day with your family and friends.
Con: You Might Have to Freshen Yourself Up After
Your first look will be incredibly emotional, so there’s a good chance you’ll need your makeup retouched before you’re ready to walk down the aisle. Depending on the photos you take, your dress and bouquet could also take a beating. The hot sun can make flowers start to wilt, and outdoor photos can lead to dust or dirt gathering on the bottom of your gown. This likely won’t be the end of the world but is something you’ll definitely want to watch out for.
Pro: You’ll Have More Time to Enjoy Your Wedding
Getting most of your photography out of the way before the ceremony starts also means that you can get to your reception sooner. You won’t have to keep your guests waiting for hours while you take photos, and you’ll get to actually enjoy your cocktail hour.
Con: You’ll Have to Start Your Day Earlier
Taking photos before your wedding means you’ll need to be dressed and have your hair and makeup done much earlier in the day. If you’re planning a brunch or early afternoon wedding, this could mean having to get up at the crack of dawn. If an early start sounds dreadful to you, then you might want to skip the first look.
Your Houston First Look Wedding Photography Expert
Now that you’re familiar with the pros and cons of first look wedding photography, you and your fiancee can decide whether it’s right for you. No matter what you decide, you’ll want to choose an expert photographer you can trust with your special moments. Contact me today to discuss your wedding vision and learn how I can help make it a reality.
