Part 3 of 5: “To Look First or Not to Look First” That is the Queston

@JoshuaandParisa: Timing and lighting are essential considerations to made when approaching the photography schedule. A skilled Wedding Planner considers access to natural light throughout the timeline. With limited access to outdoor lighting, it is advantageous for Photographers & Videographers to begin taking exterior photos before the ceremony to achieve the best photographs in optimal lighting.

@3OfCupsEvents: The decision to begin photos before or after the ceremony impacts the overall timeline. Couples are presented with the option to decide wether they want to take photos together before the ceremony or not. Some couples choose to wait to see one another during the ceremony, when walking down the aisle. The timeline is adapted to accommodate the photography schedule and it is important that the couple understand how their choices will impact the overall flow of the day.

@JoshuaandParisa: We encourage taking photos of couples together before their ceremony. Couples tend to feel more relaxed during the ceremony if they’ve had a moment to connect beforehand. Time together also allows them to get warmed up to having a camera in their personal space when they’re feeling most vulnerable.

@3OfCupsEvents: If a couple wants to be socializing with their guests during the post-ceremony Cocktail Hour, the photography schedule can begin before the time scheduled for Guest Arrival. Couples that have decided to take photos before their ceremony have provided me with feedback that they could not have predicted how important the decision was to see one another before the ceremony. They appreciated the time that allowed them to connect with each other. 

@JoshuaandParisa: Couples that choose to take pre-ceremony photos are provided the time to share a moment and connect, which helps them to deal with their wedding day nerves. During these photos, the couple is provided with a comfortable private space to soak it all in and maybe even cry together. We have found that these photos capture the emotional exchange between the couple, which are to be cherished.

@JoshuaandParisa: Couples that are okay with seeing one another before the ceremony can choose to take “First Look” photos, which captures the emotional reveal of the couple seeing one another in their wedding day attire. 

@JoshuaandParisa: Alternatively, couples that do not wish to see one another can opt to take “First Touch” photos, where the are in physical contact for a photo without seeing one another.

@JoshuaandParisa: A common misconception couples have about sharing a “First Look” or “First Touch” is they assume this interaction will take away from the emotional impact of first seeing one another as they walk down the aisle. In our experience as Wedding Photographers & Videographers, we have found that taking photos before the ceremony enhances the couple’s experience. Couples have told us that they felt just as emotional during their ceremony, if not more so. After the fact, they were better able to focus on being in the moment and remembered walking down the aisle more vividly. In follow up, they expressed how happy they were to share both experiences together and how much they love their photos!

@3OfCupsEvents: Transitioning to Wedding Party Photos after the First Look photos as opposed to waiting until after the ceremony will really save time. The couple can also decide to schedule Group Photos either before or after the ceremony. The photo location and lighting options for these photos to take place will dictate the timing options available in the timeline.