Elopement First Look Explained
Comfort & VulnerabilityÂ
In short, your elopement first look is the moment you see your partner in wedding attire on the day of your marriage. But the symbolism and ritual run much deeper. It is a vulnerable space for you to connect with your partner privately and emotionally prior to such a significant day. Your photographer should provide comfort within this vulnerability. First looks are composed of three parts: approach, touch, and the sweet reveal. These moments can represent leaving the past behind, living presently with one another, and fulfilling each other into the future. Like other ternaries, each part is beautiful in its own way. Perhaps your interpretation is somewhat different, which is part of what makes each first look unique.
Approach
First, let’s start with the approach. Your elopement is a day-long journey within a much larger quest. It is a dot within a circle, if you will. A first look is like a fleck of lead within that dot. But an important fleck on the canvas of your elopement day. It is a simplified, yet meaningful ceremony in and of itself just like your vow exchange, first dance, or any other unique segment of your day. The first look walk is a smaller journey, symbolizing both of your abilities to navigate the chaos of the world in order to find each other. A first look is full of anticipation and curiosity.
Touch
Moreover, first looks are very carefully considered. Your photographers should be able to positively affect your first look. One way we do this is by asking the person being tapped on the shoulder to take a few deep breaths before turning around. Letting this moment hang in the air and linger for a few extra seconds is key. The ideal atmosphere of a first look resembles something calm and nostalgic. The anticipation reaches a crescendo when touch is felt. Anticipation without expectation is such a delightfully wonderful and curious space.
Sweet Reveal
Finally, it’s time for the sweet reveal! This precious moment is inherently candid. It is a great way to start your elopement day together not only from an emotional standpoint, but also from a photographic standpoint. If you allow yourself to be truly vulnerable in front of the camera this early on, the emotion will drive us artistically and propel us creatively.
You are uniting together. It can be nice to have a first look to touch base at the beginning of your journey. Maybe some tears fall early. Perhaps you find yourselves laughing hysterically. Sometimes, it’s great to have space to just react to your love and be alone. Often, we have our first portrait session with you after your elopement first look. If you decide in the moment that you want to go right into your vows, that works too! The day can be constructed however you like. We absolutely love first looks and hope this information gives you a better sense of why they are so special! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out 🙂
This is such a great resource! I really loved all of the photos to really show all the different examples of how a first look could look! Every couple should read this before deciding on if they would like to do a first look!
I LOOOOVEEEE first looks! The anticipation is so exciting and emotional. I love how you explained the meaning and symbolism behind a first look. And you had so many photos to go along with it which truly made it all come to life!! I freaking love this post!
Such good advice for couples and elopement photographers alike! Just because you elope doesn’t mean you can’t experience a first look <3
All of these are super sweet and amazing captures– I especially love that photo with the deer in the background!!! <3
I love all these places, in city we don’t have that scenarios. Lot of snow in your pics that made want to be there. You give so useful information for bride. I love shooting first looks is a very emotional part of an elopement or wedding.
Really insightful look into first-looks. It’s a really great way to incorporate a lot of meaning into your elopement and add another touch of intimacy.
These photos are all so sweet! First looks are so special and can be so integral to a wedding day
The reactions and emotions you captured during this first looks are adorable! I always love the moment when a bride and groom see each other for the first time at their wedding day and I am sure after your blog post every couple is convinced to do a first look!