First looks are becoming more popular at Irish weddings, but I still get couples wondering if they’ll regret seeing each other before the ceremony.
My answer? It completely depends on you.
There’s no right way to do your wedding day, but for some couples a first look can make the whole day feel much more relaxed.
What Is a First Look?
A first look is simply choosing to see each other privately before your ceremony.
Usually, I’ll find a quiet spot, get one of you into position and then let the other walk up. After that, I mostly stand back and photograph whatever happens!
It doesn’t need to be staged or overly dramatic. It can just be a really lovely few minutes together before everything begins.
Does It Ruin the Moment Walking Down the Aisle?
This is probably the biggest worry couples have.
From what I’ve seen — no.
Seeing each other privately and seeing each other walking down the aisle surrounded by all your family and friends are two completely different moments.
There can still be plenty of emotion during the ceremony, even when you’ve spent time together beforehand.
It Can Make Your Wedding Day More Relaxed
This is probably my favourite reason for doing one.
Wedding mornings can be hectic. There’s excitement, nerves, people coming and going and suddenly it’s time to leave!
A first look gives you a few minutes together before the ceremony where you can actually talk to each other.
It can also mean getting some of your couple portraits finished earlier, leaving you with more time later to enjoy your drinks reception and your guests.
And I’m always in favour of anything that means less time disappearing for photographs and more time actually enjoying your wedding.
Is a First Look Right for Everyone?
Definitely not.
If you’ve always imagined seeing each other for the first time as you walk down the aisle, keep that moment.
But if you’re not particularly traditional, you’re nervous about the ceremony or you’d simply love a few quiet minutes together beforehand, it’s absolutely worth considering.
One of my favourite first looks was Clara and Kieran’s before their Tankardstown House wedding. They were incredibly relaxed about the whole day and it suited them perfectly.
And that’s really the point.
Your wedding photographs should work around your day, not the other way around.
