Are you thinking of planning a first look moment before your wedding ceremony? I’ve planned this moment with so many sweet couples and I thought it would be nice to share the pro’s and con’s of the moment. Personally I really love to add this to a wedding day. It’s one of my favourite moments.

The waiting…. at The Barn at Winds Edge, Saskatoon SK

The first look is when the bride and groom first see each other on their wedding day. Typically it’s an intimate moment and takes place where they can feel all the feels and emotions before they walk down the isle.
It’s a little non-traditional as some couples would rather have that first moment when they see each other at the ceremony.

I have covered many first looks over the years and it’s actually one of my favorite moments of a wedding day.
Here are my lists of Pro’s and Con’s for wedding day first looks.

Pro’s -

If you are super nervous or emotional this is the best way to “break the ice” and get a handle on those wedding day jitters/feelings of overwhelm. It’s just you and your partner-to-be and me of course capturing the beautiful moment. I promise you I give you space to be yourselves, kiss, hug and have some quiet time before heading down the isle.
It’s a chance to get some extra photos together before the ceremony. I promise, it will not ruin going down the isle. That is a different feeling, and comes with it’s own emotions. It’s really wonderful to capture these feelings of the two of you together.
Real, raw emotion in your photos. As a photographer this is what I live for and I encourage you to live each moment of your wedding day just as you want.
It really is a unique experience. But you can always change your mind!
First looks with Dad and bride- if you are super close with your dad I would really encourage you to take the extra time and capture his reaction. 100% worth it!

Con’s -

TIME. This moment does come with a bit of extra planning and time. Account for time to navigate to a private location - even if it’s in a different room of your home or yard. It still takes time to arrange the moment! You will need to make extra time to have this moment happen which means you will have to start getting ready earlier.
The location/lighting may not be ideal. Unless you have a location planned out ahead of time with your photographer you may not get the perfect lighting that is complimentary. Sometimes the location is just a little spot tucked away from the main area of the ceremony. With the help of low f stop lenses a lot of the clutter can be blurred out. - I can do this!

REMEMBER: If you plan a first look moment, you can always change your mind!

Danielle & Lane’s first look moments near Leoville, SK

If you do plan a First Look in your wedding day timeline, don’t worry about the coordination - leave that up to me! I will help direct you where to stand so I can take the best photos possible to capture the emotion! I will also do a little countdown so I can be absolutely ready to capture everything!
What to do after you have seen each other? This is where back away a little and give you time and privacy to treasure each other and linger. I have often seen couples pray together, read vows or love notes to each other. Never worry- I can’t hear you, this moment is all for you! It’s an intimate and wonderful moment that I love to capture <3

J&M first looks in President Murray Park, Saskatoon SK

First looks can also be done with Dad, Grandparents, Godparents and anyone super special in your lives.