TO SEE OR NOT TO SEE?
We get asked all the time whether or not couples should do a "first-look"moment rather than waiting until she is walking down the aisle. There are benefits to a first-look, for sure, but the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony is one we just don't think you should buck.
The first-look moment allows couples to see each other before the ceremony and take pictures prior to the ceremony, rather than cramming all of the pictures in to the cocktail hour. And while this is great from a logistics standpoint (sure makes your photog's job easier, too), we just think you lose the special moment of seeing each other for the first time AT THE ALTER.
That moment of walking towards your groom or watching your bride walk down that aisle is so incredibly priceless. The raw emotion, the symbolism, the moment you actualize that you are walking to your future...all of these (in our humble opinion) outweigh being able to attend your cocktail party and get a few more pictures in good light.
Great stuff Ady! I'm with you for the most part ... I love the tradition of seeing each other for the first time as the bride walks down the aisle. However, there are times when a First Look is a must -- for example, if your ceremony is any later than 4pm November - March, it will be way too dark for portraits after-wards! Since I know most brides and grooms don't plan their whole day around their photography needs(even though I wish they would, lol!) it's absolutely crucial to have perfect lighting for perfect portraits. So, my thoughts are, if it is necessary to see each other before the wedding, make it super special! I guarantee you, you will still be breathless and feel the anticipation and excitement of seeing each other when you walk down the aisle!
ReplyDeleteI wanted to share this great not so "first look" moment from my favorite photographer, Stephanie at Novia Distinctive Photography. A great way to get the best of both worlds and build the anticipation! Check it out at www.noviadistinctivephotography.com/blog "Sarah and Daniel"
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