For Anita Clemens Photography brides of 2017 & 2018, I have published a small magazine to help them with the details that go into having a successful wedding day. One of the articles in there is called First Look vs. Traditional. I wanted to share it with all of you in case you are on the fence about whether to do a first look or not. It may help you make up your mind.
The schedule we will follow in photographing your wedding will depend largely on whether you and your intended choose to get a glimpse of each other before the ceremony or take a more traditional route of staying separate until the big moment. Having a “first look” does offer many benefits. The more time I have with the two of you together , the more opportunity I’ll have to create the special images you’ll love. You will enjoy a more low-key, leisurely time leading up to the ceremony, and seeing each other before the event can go a long way toward reducing those pre-wedding nerves. Some couples may be concerned that a first look may diminish that magic moment when the bride walks down the aisle, but in fact, that instant when your eyes meet will be just as special whether you’ve gotten a preview or not. If you’re together before the ceremony, it will allow me to get your formal portraits done beforehand so you can relax a bit and enjoy your day.
Whether you decide to have a first look or take the more traditional approach, keep in mind that in summer, the best light for romantic, beautiful portraits is after 5 pm. Depending on the time of your wedding, you may want to wait to take your formal portraits until after the ceremony to coincide with that ideal time.
I can still get a lot of great photos before the ceremony, even if you choose not to see each other beforehand. I’ll complete a session with the bride and her bridesmaids, and another with the groom and his attendants, depending on proximity. That way, we can cut down on the amount of time set aside for portraits after the ceremony. I’ll photograph the women first, about an hour before the ceremony is scheduled to begin. Then, it’s the men’s turn. I will be sure to finish in time for everyone to get ready for the ceremony.
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