A First Look is when a couple forgoes the tradition of only seeing each other at the altar. Instead, they will create a special moment and see each other for the first time before the ceremony begins. Usually, couples get ready separately and then one partner will head to the meeting location first. The other partner will then arrive, and when the first partner turns around, they share an intimate and emotional moment together.
While all of this is taking place, the couple’s photographer will capture the moment so the couple can relive it all over again.
Featured image credit: Conlon Photography and Film
What if it’s not for me?
Of course, not every couple will want to go against tradition and see each other before the ceremony, and in fact, many of our real wedding couples say that seeing each other for the first time on the aisle is one of their favourite and most memorable moments of the day. So it’s safe to say it’s not for everyone. There are other ways of having a First Look however; such as an arranged First Look with the bride’s father, organic First Look photos with the mother or father or the ‘big reveal’ to the bridesmaids (which we absolutely LOVE).
Here’s some of our favourite first look photos and ideas to give you some inspiration for your own.
The Parents’ First Look
If a full on Couples’ First Look isn’t your thing, it might be a sweet idea to share this moment with your parents instead!
Bokeh Photography
Your Options:
When it comes to the Parents’ First Look, you’ve got several options. You could share this moment with both of your parents or just with your Dad (particularly for those who want to get ready with their Mums).
Within those options you could either stage the moment or have it be completely organic. A staged moment simply means that your parent/s know the moment is coming and they are ready and waiting for you to come out. The organic option means that your parent walks into the room, where you are ready and waiting, with the photographer set up to capture the moment.
Paudie Healy
The Bridesmaids’ First Look
A sweet way to capture the magic of best friends, sisters and bridesmaids is to ask your photographer to do a bridesmaid First Look photo.
DKPHOTO
Here’s How To Pull It Off:
First, it’s ok (well, it’s encouraged) to get ready together!
When it comes to the time to put on the finishing touches, go to a separate room. Take your mom, or another special lady, with you to help you with this part. You can put on your dress and veil, spray on perfume, and take a few moments to enjoy the moment.
While this is happening, your bridesmaids can be putting on their finishing touches too!
Ask your photographer to gather your girls so they are facing you (and the photographer) when you come out of the room.
The final product? A gorgeous photo of your girls seeing you in your bridal attire for the first time. Smiles, tears, clapping and pure joy!
John Delaney Photography
The Couples’ First Look
The best time to do a Couples’ First Look is sometime after both partners are fully dressed and ready and before the ceremony begins. Even better if there is space in the timeline for a little downtime between the First Look and ceremony.
DRene Plunkett Photography
First Look Tips For Couples:
Talk to your photographer and videographer – Before making any plans, consult your photographer and videographer. They will help you plan out the timeline, select a location, and pull together all the details.
Begin with just the two of you – Obviously you’ll want your photographer and videographer there too, but we recommend asking the wedding party and family to hang back so you can enjoy this moment alone. Let it be a quiet moment between the two of you and when you feel up to it, invite everyone else to come on down and take some fabulous group photos together.
Plan ahead – Don’t squeeze your First Look into the programme, but rather set aside ample time. We recommend building 20 – 30 minutes into your timeline so you don’t feel rushed.
Include two photographers – This is going to be a very special moment and if possible, have two photographers there to capture both partners’ faces!
Position yourselves strategically – Have one partner in place first, facing away from where the other partner will be arriving. This way, you can capture the moments before you see each other.
Use this time to exchange gifts or notes – If you already plan to give each other a small wedding day gift or note, then this is a beautiful time to do it. You’ll be able to capture each other’s reactions!
Alex Zarodov Photography
