First Looks and Their Importance | Houston Wedding Photographer

Are you wondering if you should have a first look? Today I’m sharing about first looks and their importance in relieve wedding day stress.

The idea of a first look is a fairly modern tradition. With so much popularity, so many of you have had questions on whether or not you should have one.

I’ve also had an overwhelming response from couples who shoot it down without really knowing what it is. Professionally, I think first looks are great. Since first looks are slightly untraditional in the sense of seeing you prior to you walking down the aisle, there of course is some uncertainty and uneasiness regarding them, much like any tradition. 

First, let me say that I am by no means forcing you to have a look. It is your day and you deserve to have what you want. On the other hand, I absolutely believe there are many reasons to have a first look and would like to share them with you. 

Here’s a little info regarding first looks and their importance

More time for portraits

The first reason you should consider having a first look is that weddings are chaotic. By chaotic, I don’t mean anarchy but you and your partner will be as busy as a bee. I can tell you from first-hand experience that at first set, it will seem like a rather chill day. By the time you’re sitting in the chair getting your hair and makeup done –it’s on! You’ll feel like there’s so much to do and that there’s not enough time.

With that being said, I think first looks give you guys the chance to take a little of the ‘calm before the storm’ out. At the very least, we can get the couple photos and wedding party photos done prior to the ceremony even beginning. You won’t have to rush to try to squeeze everyone in during cocktail hour. Instead, you’ll be able to relax with your newlywed spouse, and even get time to enjoy with your guests. 

In addition to having most wedding party formals complete, your hair and makeup will still look as fresh as it was prior to leaving the chair.  

An added bonus is capturing you with your family if they plan on showing up earlier. Either way, we’ll still be able to photograph them after the ceremony during traditional cocktail hour. 

Creates a more intense level of intimacy 

You’ll be nervous with butterflies before you jump the broom and tie the knot. When you have a first look, it gives you two the opportunity to help calm those nerves and comfort one another. You can let each other know that everything will turn out fine and that you can’t wait to spend the rest of your lives together. You two will have that private, uninterrupted time together without so many people around you making you a tad bit uncomfortable. Your first look gives you that special, intimacy between just the two of you (and photographers).

Will the first look decrease the tradition’s importance?

Your spouse will still be happy when you walk down the aisle

I think most couples biggest worry is that the moment of seeing each other come or walk down the aisle won’t be the same. If you were to see images of weddings that had first looks and those that didn’t, you honestly wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. Your spouse will still be just as happy and blown away, because the ceremony provides a different aurora. 

In summary, first looks create the chance to have more time for portraits with less stress, create a sense of deeper intimacy, and don’t spoil the big reveal of you walking down the aisle. I hope this blog post helped to provide you with some clarity regarding first looks and their importance.

As a traveling wedding photographer based in Houston, I travel the world photographing real life fairy tales like yours. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer, I’d love to chat with you over email. Click here to get in touch and inquire about wedding photography with me.