One of those special moments, the first look seems like such a small piece of a very big day. However, they capture some of the most magical moments you'll encounter at your wedding. 

What is the "First Look"?

The "First Look" has become an increasingly popular way for the Bride & Groom to meet on their wedding day. It's typically staged ahead of the ceremony and exclude friends, family and bridal parties from the images. The pictures are centered around the Bride & Groom alone and give them a few minutes to really take in the other person. Most first looks take around 10-20 minutes to setup and shoot, but if you need more time, I'm always willing to schedule a few extra minutes for the two of you. 

Why would I want a "First Look"? Can't you shoot it while I walk down the isle?

I can, and I have, shot the first look during the wedding ceremony. With two photographers, it's a very simple setup to make sure that we're able to capture both the Bride's face, as well as that of her Groom. However, there is an amount of intimacy that is missed during these shots due to the large audience that will be viewing the couple at that time. 

What if I choose to skip the "First Look"?

Whether or not you have a "First Look" is completely up to you. Skipping the first look does not take away from the emotion or imagery of your wedding day. It simply provides an additional private moment for you and your partner to escape from the hustle of the wedding day. First looks can be staged or happen during the ceremony. The Bride will still appear just as beautifully during the ceremony as she will during the first look. 

Should you choose to have a first look, your photographer will find a nice quiet spot away from the rest of the wedding activities where you, your groom and your photographer can set up that special moment for the two of you. You can choose to exchange gifts, read letters or simply enjoy the calm company of the other person during this time.  View more of Anna + Jared's Wedding