The Earth grinds to a halt when a groom sees his bride in her dress for the first time. His jaw drops, his eyes fill, and the room is full of gasping and honking nose-blowers. At least this is what happens in Hallmark movies, slumber party fantasies, and in pictures tucked away in yellowing scrapbooks. But in reality, rows and rows of watching eyes can stick to you and weigh down your every step, every word. It might be difficult to feel genuine, to focus on the heart in front of you, rather than the 100 other beating hearts in the room.
This is one of the reasons some couples opt to have a “first look.” A moment to see each other for the first time in private, separate from the ceremony. Less pressure, more intimacy. Some couples also don’t know how they will react, which can factor into this decision. The unpredictability of it all can be too much to handle. A first look gives you some control and a chance to have a real reaction.
What does having a first look mean for your wedding pictures?
You’ll have incredible photos of this moment. It won’t be just be a few shots of the groom’s face as the bride walks down the aisle. It will be a whole scene. The moment will be bigger, last longer, and not just gone in a flash. Laughter, eye contact, and every little facial expression will be captured. Some couples treasure these pictures the most, even more than the ceremony and reception photos.
What does this mean for your friends and family?
They might be disappointed. Those attending the wedding may want to be a part of that special moment. They might tell you that first looks take away from the magic of it all.
But once all said and done, you’ll show them the pictures, and they’ll tell you it was a great idea.
Is there an alternative to a first look?
Yes. There is something called the “first touch,” which is when the bride and groom don’t see each other, but hold hands.
This is a great way to “keep the magic” during the ceremony, and still have a memorable photo shoot as you make contact with the love of your life moments before you say “I do.”
Often times there is a wall or a door that separates the bride and groom, which adds an artistic element to the pictures, making them even more impactful.
What should you look for when picking a photographer?
Choosing the right photographer for your wedding day is important, especially if you decide to have a first look or a first touch. You need to make sure the photographer has the right amount of experience and can make sure that everything runs smoothly. David and Gaby from Benoit & McCarthy Photography are experts on first looks and first touches. They know how to coordinate everything according to the bride and groom’s wishes, seek out the best spots for these moments, and ensure they stick to the timed schedule.
Reach out to David and Gaby today at [email protected]. They would love to bring your first look or first touch dreams to life and capture all the important moments on your big day.