3 Reasons a First Look is for You!

Privacy

If you or your partner is a shy person who isn't comfortable showing emotion in front of a large crowd—or any crowd, definitely consider doing a first look. Personally, it's so worth it to take that extra 15-30 minutes before your ceremony to have a private moment together.

A huge reason I'm on a long lens for 80% of a wedding is so I can keep my distance while still getting shots that are closeup. This is especially handy for first looks. While it means I have to shout prompts with my tiny voice, it's so worth it to be able to make you feel like it's just the two of you.

Extended Photography Time

If you're doing a first look, you might as well throw in some wedding party and family photos in while you're at it. Doing as many photos before the ceremony as possible means less time needed for photos after the ceremony and more time with your guests.

A huge reason I'm on a long lens for 80% of a wedding is so I can keep my distance while still getting shots that are closeup. This is especially handy for first looks. While it means I have to shout prompts with my tiny voice, it's so worth it to be able to make you feel like it's just the two of you.

Intimate Vows

If you want to make your vows really personal but aren't comfortable reading them in front of your guests, a first look can give you a chance to read them to each other while you're alone. A time when you're not trying to hold back emotion or tears.

10 Prompts for Genuine Laughter & Smiles

Whisper Your Dinner Order

This is a tried and true prompt that has never failed me. It's best when only the bride or groom know what's happening. This is great for both photo and video. You incorporate the movement of the whisper with the movement of the laughter that will follow.

Swing Her Around

Have the one pick the other up and swing them from the left to the right or vice versa. This is also great because it puts both of their hands in natural positions as they hold on to each other,

The Hip Check

You can do this while they walk away from you and back towards you, or simple give them a certain area they can stay within. For this photo, I did the latter. I love positions this prompt does with their hands and legs!

Dancing

It's just a simple spin, but I love the movement it creates. This is especially great for video as it accentuates the gown.

The Great Escape

With one's arms around the other, have the bride or groom try to escape the grasp. They can be facing each other or be back to front.

Melanie & James

There's something undeniably magical about Strathmere, one of Ottawa's premier wedding venues. Nestled just outside the city, its charm is palpable—from the gardens to the to the cute swing hanging by a tree, this wedding venue is a photographer’s dream.