Four Reasons to do a first look at your wedding - Atlanta Wedding Photographer Kristin Cheatwood Photography

Many of my couples ask me whether or not they should have a first look. If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering the same thing. In my professional opinion, I think they are an excellent idea. I love first looks. I know that they are a tad bit ‘non-traditional,’ but let me take a minute to explain the benefits of a first look.

Many times, couples will exchange love letters to read right before the reveal…making it an even MORE powerful moment.

1. Your wedding day will be crazy busy. No getting around it. You have so much to do and such little time to fit it all in. If you have a first look, it helps to calm down the day a bit. Instead of trying to rush around to get everyone together and have pictures taken between the wedding ceremony and reception while your guests are waiting, you’ll have that time to relax and enjoy your guests and not have to worry about being late to your reception. We can do all of the main portraits before the ceremony even begins – at the very least, the bride and groom and bridal party photos. This way, your hair and makeup are still perfect :). If your family arrives earlier, we can take their photos beforehand, as well, or we will only have to worry about those portraits after the ceremony and not the bridal party shots.

A first look at the _ Insert location

2. A first look also gives you a very special, intimate moment with your new spouse. If you are nervous or stressed out, this will especially help to relax you, and your spouse can comfort you and let you know it will all be OK. During the ceremony, there are many people around and you can’t fully take in the moment because everyone is staring at you. With a first look, that moment is just between you and your spouse (and your photographers, of course).

3.  You will end up with more photos

Wedding photography is a big investment, so make the most of it! It is said that you will get approximately 40% more portraits with your new spouse if you do a first look. These are the photos that you will cherish forever, that will fill up your albums, and will be proudly hung in your home! After your wedding is just a memory, a few things remain. Your wedding photos will bring you back to that special place and time, so in our opinion, the more photos the merrier!

4. Even if you have a first look, your husband will be just as happy to see you walking down the aisle and you’ll still take his breath away. Don’t worry that you’ll be spoiling the moment by seeing him prior to the ceremony.