While I love wedding photos of every sort, from bouquets to bridesmaids, there are ones that warm my heart more than others and those are the first looks. With the pure emotion, and usually the look of sweet surprise on the groom’s face, these pics are always amazing. David Lynn Photography is here to spread the word on the magic of this moment and tips for making it as special as can be.
We absolutely love when our couples choose to do a First Look! It’s such a special time for just the two of them; a time they may not get throughout the rest of their wedding day.
Some couples are afraid that a First Look will take away from the excitement of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony. However, we’ve found that it can make that moment even more meaningful! When you see each other beforehand, it gives you a chance to react to each other, shake off any nervous energy, say all the things you want to share, and feel comfortable shedding some tears if you’re moved to do so! Then, you can be even more present with each other and your guests at the ceremony. What a beautiful way to start off your wedding day!
To make your First Look as fabulous as possible, we recommend:
For all the reasons we listed above, finding a private spot is ideal. We always scout out a great location for our clients, a place that will look great in photographs and be secluded from wedding guests and passers-by.
Since your first look will happen earlier in the day, harsh lighting from the sun may be an issue. Trust your photographer’s expertise to find a spot that puts you both in beautiful light!
This is such a meaningful part of the day – don’t rush through it! It’s the last opportunity you will have to be together as an engaged couple before getting married, so relax and soak it all in!
We always tell our brides to do what feels the most natural and comfortable to them. You can walk up to your groom, tap him on the shoulder to have him turn around, or call his name and have him turn around before you get to him. We also have couples who want a less “staged” experience, so they both face each other as they meet. There is definitely no wrong way; this moment will be as unique as your wedding and the two of you.
As photographers and a married couple ourselves, we have David wait at the chosen spot with the groom, and then Lynn arrives shortly afterwards with the bride to meet him. We are always in contact beforehand to make sure that our bride and groom don’t inadvertently see each other before the First Look.
As a side note, if it is important to you to keep your dress clean for this part of the day, it’s sometimes helpful to have a bridesmaid walk out with you to hold your train!
Couples who do a First Look have the advantage of enjoying more of the day with their guests! The period right after your First Look is a great time to take care of the bridal party and family photographs. That way, when the ceremony is over, you can join your cocktail hour and spend more time with all the people you love.
Take this opportunity to do something meaningful for your fiancé. We have had couples exchange gifts, read love letters, or just be completely present with each other during their First Looks. Tell your bride or groom-to-be exactly what you are feeling, and savor this moment. Above all, enjoy this time and have fun!
ONGOING GIVEAWAYS + DISCOUNTS…
Waldorf Astoria
Squarespace
Oh So Inspired
THIS WEEK’S DISCOUNTS…
For our California Brides… Discount from L’Relyea Events, The Ranch at Laguna Beach
For our New England Brides… Discount from Sweet Monday Photography
Photography Advice: David Lynn Photography