About Catholic Wedding First Looks

What is a first look?

If you’re in the wedding planning world, you have probably heard of a First Look. Let us walk you through Catholic wedding first looks! The term “first look” is typically referring to when the bride first reveals her transformed bridal look. It takes place after she is in her gown and has her hair and makeup done with her jewelry and veil are in.

Who does a first look?

A first look can be done in different combinations! They can be done with the groom if the couple is seeing each other before the wedding begins. They are often also done with the father of the groom, and occasionally done with bridesmaids too. Of course, anyone can do a first look with the bride if the relationship is a close one!

How do you do a first look?

Typically a first look is set up with the groom/father facing away, and the bride is brought into the room. The groom or father is then tapped on the shoulder or told to turn around.

Why do a first look?

A wedding day goes by quickly! A first look gives couples the ability to document a big moment and make sure a sweet reaction from the father of the bride or the groom isn’t missed in the shuffle.

What are the pros and cons of a first look between the bride and groom?

Pros:

• A first look allows a couple to see each other before they go down the aisle, which gives them the option to walk down the aisle together. Did you know that the rubrics of a Catholic wedding actually call for the couple to enter down the aisle together? There is allowance for the bride to be escorted by someone else, but doing a first look gives you more flexibility.
• It can take the pressure off a relieve some nerves.
• It gives you the opportunity to capture a moment in a controlled environment.

Cons:

• It does mean that the bride and groom see each other before the wedding, which is against a secular tradition that some people like to participate in.
• It is an orchestrated moment, which can feel less authentic to some people.
• Some men may feel uncomfortable with the pressure to react in the “correct” way.

How do you make a first look go smoothly?

• Trust your photo and video team. Not only can they judge the best light, they will likely have done a lot of these and will be able to direct the flow.

For your first look inspiration from fellow Catholic photographers, check out these wedding photos!

Father/Daughter Catholic Wedding First Looks

Bridesmaids Catholic Wedding First Looks

Bride and Groom Catholic Wedding First Looks