For the next couple weeks we’ll be looking at weddings behind the scenes. We’ll look at fun stuff like formal pictures, to see each other before hand or not, where is Knoxville on the wedding scene…all sorts of fun stuff.
Today, a first look? To do or not on your wedding day?

A trend that is continuing throughout the United States with weddings is a first look. This is when the bride and groom see each other before the wedding in an intimate moment so the photographer can capture the first look and then proceed to get amazing couple shots before the hubbub of the wedding begins.

I’m finding more and more, here in Knoxville, Tennessee, the tradition of seeing the bride when she first walks down the aisle is still holding strong. As a photographer I’m kinda on the fence about this one. Maybe I shouldn’t be because a lot of photographers have strong opinions about seeing each other before hand but I have to say I understand those that want the traditional way. So, I thought a blog post was in order:) Plus, I had another photographer weigh in on the matter (and one that isn’t from Knoxville to get a little perspective on it:) )

First, some pro’s and con’s:

PROS for a first look:
-Dedicated time to have your photographer to yourselves and get amazing pictures of the two of you!
-It’s intimate, just the two of you, with time to yourselves as you take this amazing journey together.
-You don’t have to worry about your makeup if you cry during the ceremony.
-Lessens the amount of time you need to dedicate to photos between the ceremony and reception= happy guests:)
-The light! Depending on your ceremony time the light can be better before hand (this is one to talk with your photographer about). I know that weddings here in Knoxville right now that start at 5pm would be better light with a first look beforehand.

CONS for a first look:
-It’s breaking tradition by golly!
-You want his first sight of you being when you walk down the aisle.
-You don’t want to kiss before the ceremony.

What Jared at Jacobus Photography based in Ohio had to say: “I let them decide unless its a winter wedding where it gets dark really early. If light will be an issue then I recommend they meet before. If they still want to wait to see each other then I am fine with it and I make sure I do my job.”

My personal opinion, similar to Jared’s, is I am all for tradition and completely respect the decision BUT if you opt to wait, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE put aside time after the ceremony for just the bride and groom to steal away and get some good pictures. So often you get into the groove of the wedding and if you don’t plan time the priority dwindles when Aunt Hilda is pulling on your arm for a hug. Just sayin’.

Lesson for the day: Whether a first look or the tradition: make couple shots a PRIORITY! Those are the ones you will want to see and hang up after the wedding! Oh, and talk to your photographer about the light and timing to get their opinion:)

A big thanks to Jacobus Photography! Here is one of their amazing pictures!