What is a “First Look”?

For many years, tradition has dictated that the bride and groom were not to see each other before the ceremony. Though this is a nice idea, when it all comes down to it, it’s not very practical. The modern bride and groom have a choice to make about how they envision their first meeting.  Couples who opt for a “first look” choose to see each other before the ceremony takes place in order to have the time to take many or all of their photos before they walk down the isle.

But won’t we miss out on the special moment of seeing each other for the first time?

You most definitely will not!  We make it our top priority to create a beautiful and intimate first meeting for our brides and grooms that choose a “first look”.  Picture this: a quite meeting in a secluded place. The groom closes his eyes and waits until he hears the voice of his bride-to-be, calling his name as she comes to meet him. And then he opens his eyes to see her for the first time – even more beautiful then he had imagined.  We quietly observe this meeting, shooting with long lenses in an effort to keep the moment as private as possible.  We allow our couples to take as much time as they’d like to soak in this very special moment and they tell US when they’re ready to start shooting the more formal portraits.  Few brides and grooms realize this going into their wedding day, but a first look will likely be some of the only private moments you will get to share in the course of a VERY busy day.  When you wait to see each other during the ceremony, your first moments together will be with an audience of people watching. As soon as the ceremony ends, you will probably be tempted to rush through the portraits to get to the reception, worrying about keeping your guests waiting. When you take care of most of your photos in advance, you can relax, enjoy your ceremony and then head straight to the party!

How will our decision effect the schedule of the day?

We’ve put together a schedule describing the difference of how your day will play out depending on whether your choose a “First Look” or a more traditional timeline.  Click here to check out the timelines.  Please contact us directly if you have any other questions about what a “first look” would mean for your wedding day!