My number one wedding photography tip is to make time for photos before the wedding.
More and more couples are opting to take photos before the ceremony so that they can enjoy going to their ceremony knowing that they have these important-but-not-always-the-most-fun-to-take-when-youre-missing-the-party photos. I am a huge fan of “First Look” photos, not only as a photographer but as a Bride.
Nate and I scheduled an hour of time prior to our own ceremony for us to just be together. To take it all in. Just us. And our photographers. The photos were gorgeous. But more importantly, it served as an anchor to our day and I’m so glad we did it. It can be easy to get swept up in the wonderful glorious rush of the day and a first look is a great time to slow down, get centered and be excited/cuddly/happy together.
Here is what I had to say about it on our wedding blog back when I was a Bride (and before I became a pro photographer):
Nathan and I planned to arrive early for an intimate photo session with our Photographer. This would allow us to take all those photos you know you will want to have, without disrupting the flow of events and making our guests have to wait around. I am SO GLAD we planned to do this. With all the rushing, primping, and “Oh my gosh, were running late!… We have to go!” that it took to get out of the house, it was really great to have that 30 minutes to slow down and enjoy the moment. It allowed me to be calm and collected when our guest arrived. – Sarah
And what Nate had to say about it as the Groom:
As I headed up the trail I found Sarah looking absolutely magnificent. Her hair was straightened, which I had never seen, nor expected. She looked unbelievable in her dress. She was wearing minimal “just enough”makeup and it complimented her well. She was the complete and perfect embodiment of the beauty that I see everyday. We spent around 45 minutes taking photos with Carrie and Brian. It seemed more like 10. It was an awesome time of playful banter with each other and the camera. We were required to act sweet, affectionate, and loving. Something we do anytime we are around each other, only this time we got to dress up for it. – Nathan
** All photos above are from our very own first look. Images by Carrie & Brian Workman. **