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Why a First Look Makes for the Sweetest Wedding Day Photos

1 day ago 13

Karen Louise Daly

Times, they are a changin' in the wedding world, meaing couples are planning their day exactly how they want it, including when they see each other on the big day. The heart-meltingly sweet first look photo trend has been growing for a while now and it's so easy to see why! While they say it's bad luck to see one another before the wedding, there are lots of couples that are proving otherwise - just check out our favourite first look shots from our real weddings here.

The first look photo is proving popular as an alternative to seeing each other for the first time while walking down the aisle for various reasons, from dealing with wedding day nerves to creating more time to spend with guests after the ceremony. Here we dive into why this trend could be one to consider.

What is a First Look Photo

A first look is great for the couple who want to skip the big reveal at the altar, and instead opt for a private moment before the ceremony. Wondering whether this is for you? We've listed some sensible pros and cons to consider below before you make your decision.

But remember, a first look photo can be with anyone you love, not just your spouse to be. We've seen first look photos between a bride and her grandfather and grandmother, the bride and her bridesmaids, the groom and the flowergirl, the groom and his groomsmen, the bride and the groomsmen, a couple and their children... the list is as varied as the people you love.

A very popular moment is the first look photo that the bride shares with her father when she is finally ready in her beautiful wedding dress. The best thing is these first look photos with other loved ones can be done without having to alter the timeline of your wedding day.

Pros of Having a First Look Photo:

It's a great time saver! Your photographer will capture you both together before the ceremony, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests after the ceremony.
If you're having a winter wedding, a first look photo allows you to get your couple's photos while the daylight is at it's best.
It can settle the nerves. If you're feeling anxious or suffer from stage fright, sharing this moment in private can help ease these feelings.
A private moment for just the two of you. The day flies by so fast, this sentimental snapshot allows you to spend some time together before the day begins.
It will be a cherished photograph and incredible keepsake, capturing the raw emotion of the moment.

Cons of Having a First Look Photo:

The wedding day timeline. To make time for this, your morning preparations will need to begin earlier. However, your photographer can help you with the timeline.
Privacy can be an issue. If the location is the same as the ceremony, it might be hard to avoid guests seeing you in your wedding dress or suit. Plan ahead of time to ensure your spot is private. You may even need a bridesmaid or groomsman to shoo away nosey guests.
The weather is of course an uncontrollable element. Have an indoor plan B!
If you're both not in the same venue before the wedding, this can be hard to coordinate.

Fun First Look Photo Ideas

1. The Blindfolded First Look

If you wish to cherish a moment together but want to hold off the wedding dress reveal until the ceremony, then this picture-perfect option is for you!

2. The Classic First Look

The classic first look is a beautiful way to share that special first glimpse of each other, creating a private, emotional moment together before the ceremony begins.

3. The Parent's First Look

This moment that will have you weak at the knees. Whether it's a bride or groom and their children, or a groom and the flower girl, this is a very special shot that will be cherished for a long time.

3. The First Look With Your Dad

A first look with your dad is a beautifully emotional moment, giving you the chance to share a quiet hug, a few happy tears and a special moment together before the ceremony begins.

4. The First Look With Your Mum

While some mums are by your side as you get ready, others choose to save the dress reveal for a sweet first look, making for a lovely and often emotional moment to share before the ceremony. And it’s not just the bride’s mum, a first look with the groom’s mum can be just as special.

5. The First Look With Your Dog

Be still our beating hearts! We love when the doggos play a part at a wedding, but this first look between this bride and her fur baby is on a whole new level of cuteness.

6. The First Look with Grandparents

A first look with grandparents is a beautiful way to share your wedding-day look with some of the most special people in your life, making for a wonderfully heartfelt moment before the celebrations begin. These are the kind of photos you’ll treasure for years to come, and your grandparents will feel so loved and special being included in such an important moment.

7. The Bridal Party First Look

The bridesmaid reveal! Even though you will have your ladies by your side from the moment you say 'yes' to the dress to 'I do' at the ceremony, you won't regret sharing this intimate moment with them on the wedding morning.

8. The First Touch

A first touch is a sweet alternative to a first look, where the couple meet before the ceremony without actually seeing each other. Usually, they stand on opposite sides of a door, wall or around a corner, hold hands, and share a few words or a moment together while still keeping the bride’s or groom’s appearance a surprise until the aisle.It gives you the emotion and intimacy of a first look, while keeping that traditional walking-down-the-aisle reveal.

Inspired by this beautiful photo trend? Check out these Heart-Melting First Look Photos from Real Weddings here, these 18 Wedding Photo Ideas to Try, or listen to the One Fab Day podcast for further inspiration!

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