When planning your wedding day, there are countless decisions to make—but one choice that can have a huge impact on your experience is whether or not to do a first look. While some couples prefer the tradition of seeing each other at the altar, there are several reasons why a first look might be the perfect choice for your day. Photos By Teenzy, a professional Cleveland wedding photographer, has great tips on why you should consider doing a first look. Her experience capturing unforgettable wedding days allows her to share valuable insight on how to get the most out of your own.
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Diffuse Nerves and Pre-Wedding Jitters
Weddings are exciting—but they can also be nerve-wracking. A first look allows you to share a private moment together before all eyes are on you. It’s a chance to breathe, be with each other, and let those jitters melt away. Many couples find that after their first look, they feel calmer and more confident walking down the aisle.
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Create a More Relaxed Timeline
When you do a first look, your wedding day timeline can be more relaxed. You’ll have more flexibility to take photos before the ceremony, which means you won’t feel rushed after the ceremony trying to fit everything in. This can make the whole day feel smoother and less stressful for both you and your photographer.
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More Photo Opportunities & Variety
A first look opens the door for more photos in different locations and lighting conditions. Since you’re not constrained by the schedule after the ceremony, your photographer can capture a wider range of shots—candid, emotional, and creative. This also allows you to take advantage of natural light for portraits that are often more difficult later in the day.
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Enjoy More of Cocktail Hour
If you wait until after the ceremony to take all your portraits, you may miss out on cocktail hour or feel like you’re constantly pulled away for photos. Doing a first look ensures you can enjoy this time with your guests, relax, and celebrate without feeling like you’re on a strict schedule. You can actually enjoy your wedding day with your partner and all the hard work you two put into it!
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A More Intimate Experience
A first look is a private, meaningful moment shared just between the two of you. It’s the perfect opportunity to exchange personal words, read private vows, or simply soak in the excitement of your day. This intimate moment can be one of the most memorable experiences of your wedding.
Ultimately, whether or not to do a first look is completely up to you. If you’re dreaming of a more relaxed, heartfelt start to your wedding day, a first look might be the perfect fit. As Photos By Teenzy has seen time and time again, those moments of connection often lead to some of the most genuine, emotional photos of the entire day. However you choose to plan your timeline, make sure it reflects the love and joy that brought you here in the first place.
