If you’re thinking about doing a first look, you’re not alone!
Let’s go through the pros and cons of having a first look.
If you’re wondering…
A first look is a private reveal between the couple before the ceremony. One person will stand and wait with their back turned and the other will walk up to them and when they turn around, bam! Happy tears and lots of hugs.
PROS:
YOU CAN ATTEND COCKTAIL HOUR
Eat those appetizers you’ve been looking forward to! If you do full hour first look, you can complete couple photos, wedding party photos, and family portraits during that time so that you can mingle and give hugs to all your guests during cocktail hour.
IT’S PRIVATE
If the thought of seeing your spouse-to-be and bursting into tears in front of 120 guests gives you anxiety… a first look is for you! You can have some rare one-on-one time with your spouse-to-be, and you have time to talk and express your feelings without being rushed or in front of an audience.
IT ALLOWS MORE TIME FOR COUPLE PORTRAITS
If coupe portraits are top priority for you, having a first look will not only give you more photos, but they’ll be so intimate and filled with emotion.
IT MAKES THE DAY LESS STRESSFUL
With a first look, you won’t be rushed and can enjoy the rest of the day stress-free knowing you got all the important family, couple, and wedding party portraits earlier in the day.
CONS:
LATER PORTRAITS = BETTER LIGHT
Portraits earlier in the day will always be beautiful, but the closer they take place to golden hour, the better. Even if you have a first look, you may want to take 15 minutes during golden hour / dinner for some romantic evening portraits!
IT MAY REQUIRE MORE COVERAGE TIME
Having a first look generally adds an additional 30 minutes for just couple portraits or a full 60 or even 90 minutes with family + wedding party, so keep that in mind when crafting a timeline with your photographer and how many hours are included in your package. With a full hour first look, most couples fit perfectly into 7-8 hours!
There are pros and cons to every decision on your wedding day, but even a 30 minute first look can add SO many more beautiful photos to your album and relieve a lot of stress from the day. Still unsure? Let’s talk about what’s right for you!
XOXO, Lena
