One of the biggest decisions you’ll be making for your wedding day is whether or not to have a first look.
A first look is when the wedding couple plans to have a private moment where they will see each other before the wedding. Some couples wish this to be private, others would like it photographed. Eighty to ninety percent of our couples decide to have a first look.
As your photographers, we do not have any preference over whether or not you do a first look. We know it’s more traditional to see each other for the first time at the altar, and we love getting those reaction shots!
That being said, there are certain situations where a first look might be beneficial, so we want you to have all the information you need to know.
Here is a quick overview, followed by more detailed explanations:
When we would recommend a first look:
- You only have one photographer
- Your timeline is tight between the Ceremony and Reception
- You have different locations for the Ceremony and Reception
- The lighting changes during your ceremony (such as a ceremony at sunset)
- You want lots of couple photos together
- You have a large family and will need extra time for family photos
- You want to enjoy your pre-reception
- You have a lot of guests (over 100)
When a first look isn’t necessary:
- You have two photographers
- The lighting doesn’t change during the ceremony
- You do not have a wedding party
- There are not a lot of family photos to take
- You do not have a lot of guests
Here are the benefits of having a first look:
More Couple Photos
Without a first look, the amount of time for couple photos is 10-15 minutes. With a first look, it is usually 45 minutes to an hour. Some couples use this time for photos, other couples use the extra time to enjoy the pre-reception with their guests.
If you are having a wedding at Disneyland Hotel with the a coach, your time for family photos after the ceremony will be more limited.
Easier Family Photos
Family photos can be a bit stressful! It’s a lot of people to round up in a very short amount of time, and it’s usually everyone’s least favorite part of the wedding day. They know it’s important, but they would rather be moving on to the pre-reception snacks!
When family photos are taken before the wedding, everyone can go to the pre-reception after the ceremony to mingle and relax. Family members also look a little more fresh when photos are done before the ceremony.
Easier Timeline
Unless you have a second photographer, the timeline is easier when there is a first look. This is because the family and wedding party photos can be done at once, instead of having to take turns. Without a first look, chances are there will be downtime while the photographer is working with the other group.
Easier on the Nerves
I’ve noticed that couples are always more relaxed after they see each other, whether it’s before the ceremony or after. Sometimes I have couples request a first look simply because they know they will be battling nerves and will feel better with their partner by their side.
It’s More Private
The nice thing about a first look is, it’s a little more intimate. Just the two of you and your photographer! During the ceremony, all eyes will be on you and your partner as you make your way towards each other. Some couples like the attention, but others feel more shy about it.
Better Quality Images
The other great thing about a first look is the photographer has full control over the moment and the lighting. They can set you in a place where they know the pictures will be great, and they can really capture this moment. When you’re walking down the aisle, sometimes this moment can be a little tricky for a photographer. We can’t always predict what guests will do and if they will jump into the aisle for a photo, and we do not have control over sudden lighting changes (like cloud covering).
To capture the groom’s expression at the altar, I memorize the settings for when the bride walks down the aisle, switch my settings to what is needed for the groom (because the lighting is usually different), and then switch my settings back for the bride. It’s a quick moment, and it takes a seasoned pro to nail it.
Reasons for Declining a First Look
Tradition
The biggest reason couples wait to go down the aisle is because of tradition. They’ve been imagining that aisle walk all their lives.
“That” Moment
I have a lot of couples say they want the moment they see each other at the ceremony to feel special, but I do have to chip in here and say that it doesn’t matter if you wait or have a first look, the aisle moment will be special because you are about to get married! I had a first look and I can tell you first hand that it’s exciting no matter how the day goes.
Not That Into Photos
Some couples don’t care to have a lot of portraits taken, and that’s okay!
First Look Alternatives
Sometimes I have couples request a “blind” first look or a “first touch.” This is when you interact before the ceremony but do not actually see each other. In my experience, these alternate first looks are even sweeter when there is a planned way to interact. Here are a few examples:
Write A Letter
Blind first looks are lovely when couples exchange and silently read a note they have written for each other. It gives them an opportunity to eloquently tell each other what is in their heart, and always makes for a sweet photo.
Have a Gift Exchange
Exchanging gifts is a wonderful way to interact without seeing each other. Maggie gave Dave a customized viewfinder with images from some of their favorite memories. Dave gave Maggie a beautiful bracelet.
Say a Prayer
Another beautiful way to carry out a first touch is to hold hands and say a prayer together, or simply chat with each other. It is a sweet way to connect without actually seeing each other yet. If you think you’re going to feel nervous before the ceremony, this is a great way to check-in with your partner without fully seeing each other.
If you decide not to have a first look, then I would suggest one or both of these options to help your day run smoother:
Two Photographers
When you have two photographers at your wedding, the photographers can split up and get as many wedding party photos captured as they can before the ceremony. You’ll still need to get family photos with both of you and wedding party photos with everyone, but at least you will have a lot of your photos done.
Post-Wedding Photo Session
Some couples choose to take wedding portraits after their wedding day so they can get more photos together! If you’re having a wedding at Disneyland Resort, their Theme Park Photo Session offers a chance to wear your wedding attire inside the theme parks for a private wedding photo shoot, just the two of you.
I hope this has been helpful to you! If you are still on the fence, I would suggest emailing your photographer and asking to see a full wedding gallery with a first look and without. This way, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect your day will be like as far as photos go.
Whatever you decide, just know that your day will be special no matter what. At the end of the day you will both be married, and that’s all that really matters.
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