Photo by Kinici Photo
Bridal couples are open to trying new ways to make their wedding album more personal. One of the hot favourites at the moment is doing the “first look”. However some couples are dead against it. They either feel that it will bring them bad luck or they prefer waiting in suspense before walking down the aisle. Here are a few arguments for and against the “first look” for those of you still debating whether this is the thing for you.
The Good
#1 You Feel Less Nervous
Pre-wedding jitters are probably the worst thing ever. Everything feels wrong and you start questioning why you are getting married. However seeing your loved one before the ceremony will help you calm down. Suddenly things don’t seem so bad anymore. You know that at the end of the day he or she loves you no matter what. With renewed confidence, you are ready to walk down the aisle.
#2 Fewer Interruptions
You feel more relaxed when there are fewer friends and relatives around. Thus you will appear more natural when photographed. Things are much more hectic after the ceremony. You will be so distracted you will forget to smile or you may have difficulty following your photographer’s directions. You will also get very flustered whenever someone interrupts the session.
Photo by Renatus Photography
#4 Better Lighting
Photographs taken shortly after sunrise or shortly before sunset are beautiful. At that time the sun light is gentler and the colours more vibrant. It is definitely better to have your portraits taken in the morning, when you plan to have your reception in the early afternoon.
#5 The Reception isn’t Delayed
The portrait session can last up to an hour. Your guests will grow restless as they wait to be invited to the reception. Having the session before the ceremony means that you can adjourn to the reception quickly and you are less likely to run overtime as your guests have enough time to eat and drink.
Photo by Weelian Photography
#6 It’s Fun
This moment doesn’t have to be solemn at all. You can make it fun by playing a game of hide-and-seek or wearing blind folds. Anything goes as long as both of you get a glimpse of the each other at the same time.
The Bad
#1 Superstitious Relatives may Protest
Older relatives may object to you participating in a first look photo shoot, as they feel it may bring your marriage bad luck. To prevent them from grumbling throughout the ceremony, you may want to discuss with your families first to make sure everyone approves.
#2 You are not a Morning Person
You will have to be up hours earlier. This means scrambling to get ready and downing cups of coffee to keep your tired eyes open. This might not be a good option for people who need to sleep in. You still have to survive the rest of the day without taking a nap.
Photo by Zonzon Productions
#3 Guests Won’t Witness Your Happiness
Part of the experience is letting everyone gathered there see the groom’s expression as the bride steps onto the aisle. Such joy cannot be recreated a second time because you already shared it in private. If you want to share the moment with your friends and relative, don’t do a “first look” photo shoot.
Tips for Creating Your Perfect “First Look” Moment
#1 Discuss the Logistics
Fix the time and the place with your wedding photographer. You might have to book the session more than two hours ahead to ensure everyone reaches the ceremony on time. It’s better to be early than late. When the ceremony is delayed, the entire schedule is pushed back.
#2 Choose a Good Location
The area needs to be private and well-lit. It could be on a sofa in front of a window or a bench in the garden. Just make sure the rest of the bridal party is kept informed. Fewer interruptions means that the portrait taking will be over quickly and you can focus on preparing for the ceremony.
Photo by Under One Tree
#3 Don’t Peek
Encourage everyone to avoid posting your pictures on Facebook and Twitter to make the moment as genuine as possible. When both of you are ready, have a relative or a member of the bridal party take you to the chosen location separate.
#4 Keep It Simple
This shot is about capturing your genuine emotions. It is okay to be teary-eyed whether you are the bride or the groom. Just do what you feel is right. Really most of your by-standers will be too enthralled to laugh. This is your special day after all.
A first look photo can help to make your wedding album more personal, but it isn’t for everyone. Respecting traditions is just as good. Remember the decision you make should be a happy one.
