First Look vs. Traditional

In a traditional wedding format, the first time Bride and Groom lay eyes on each other is when the bride comes down the aisle. There is a popular trend going on in weddings called a "First Look", or reveal. A first look is a scenario staged by the photographer for the bride and groom to see each other before the ceremony.

There are several benefits to going with a  'first look' as opposed to traditional format.

1. The intimate moment that they share before the wedding, seeing each other for the first time, is shared by them and them alone, as opposed to a traditional wedding, where you are sharing your moment with your guests.

2. The 'first look' occurs in a controlled environment with out all the bells and whistles and formality of the bride coming down the aisle. This usually makes for better pictures of them seeing each other for the first time. Many people choose to have their first look in the sanctuary, but another advantage of the first look is that it doesn't have to be where you are getting married. If there is a prettier location that you had in mind, that will just add life to your wedding album.

3. If you go with the traditional format and don't opt for the first look, most of your pictures are going to be after the ceremony. This can eat up a lot of time that you would probably rather be spending with your guests. A first look provides the opportunity to get as many pictures as possible out of the way before the ceremony begins.

Lastly, many who decide to go the traditional route and opt out of the first look tend to have the mindset that the moment is somehow less special because it wasn't in front of all your guests, or that you have somehow ruined the sanctity or tradition of the wedding day.  I disagree with that 100%. The first look is an amazing, special, and intimate moment that you and your significant other can share alone and takes nothing away from your wedding. I would love to know what you think! Drop a line below!