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The Truth About the First Look

A few weeks ago, we were interviewed by one of Denver’s finest catering companies. One of their questions was, “Which wedding trend are you looking forward to this spring and summer?” Without hesitation, we immediately answered: the first look.

The first look is simply when the bride and groom see each other in a secluded area without any distractions for the first time before the wedding ceremony. This is usually scheduled and prepared by the wedding photographer and is typically far enough away from all the hustle and bustle of pre-wedding events. What initially started out as a great photo opportunity, has quickly turned into a beautiful, organic, and intimate moment in time for a couple on their wedding day to spend a little time together with their best friend before the craziness of the wedding begins. The more first looks we have had the honor of being a part of, the more we value this time for the couple as it’s usually the only time they have alone on their big day.

To be clear, I am in no way trying to undermine the beauty of tradition and waiting until the altar. In fact, Mike and I opted for tradition ourselves, first seeing each other on our wedding day at the altar. My aim is to simply shed light on a relatively new tradition in the wedding industry and offer some considerations to couples who may be on the fence about seeing each other before the wedding ceremony.

The history of waiting until the altar dates back to the times when a father would sell his daughter to a man in the name of marriage to pay off debt, or just make a few bucks. The bride and groom weren’t allowed to see each other until the altar for the sole reason that the groom couldn’t bolt if she wasn’t his type/ugly/had a crazy disease. Seriously, that’s where this tradition began. Since the good ol’ days, it’s become a tradition to wait until the alter for the bride and groom to see each other. However, with the hectic nature of a wedding, many couples are opting for a first look.

Curious to hear the opinions of the couples who did opt for a first look, I decided to interview couples who we’ve had the honor of working with and being a part of their special moment. Hopefully their insight will help you make a decision if you’re consider whether or not a first look is for you!

 

-Codey & Taylor

“We knew our photos were going to be something we would treasure forever, but what we didn’t expect to walk away with was an effortless bond turned friendship.

Taylor and Mike are not just invested in capturing the magic of the wedding day, but their heart is in it for the marriage and future that follows.”

-Brett & Mendy

I did not feel rushed or anxious, just simply in the moment—which was most important as this would be a once in a lifetime experience—and believe me, Taylor and Mike made it memorable. Separately they are an absolute delight, and together they make the ultimate team and genuine couple. You can see the true dedication they put into making that day, your day…special! It was an absolute joy to work with this inspirational couple."

"With grace and charm, Taylor and Mike set the tone for our beautiful wedding day!

-Jake & Christina

They did everything we asked and more. Our friends and family keep remarking how great our photographers were. They took so many photos and delivered them in such a fast turnaround."

"Taylor and Mike are professional, friendly, detailed, flexible, committed—exactly the kind of presence you want from photographers on your wedding day! 

-Chris & Kim

On the day, they were so organized and kept things moving at a perfect pace. We never felt rushed yet were able to adhere to our timeline perfectly. They made everyone, including my generally camera-shy husband, feel at ease making for photos with real smiles."

"From start to finish, Taylor and Mike take great care to make sure you are comfortable and have clear and prompt communication. 

-Jake & Haydn

We are so impressed with not only them as people and their amazing work, but also their communication skills throughout the entire planning process."

"Taylor and Mike have a great ability to take photographs in places no ordinary person would ever think of, and, while still focusing on you, they are also able to capture the beautiful scenery.

-Adam & Sydney

Though we had never met, it was as though we were life-long friends and it was immediately apparent we wanted to work with them. They are so pleasant, personable, and go above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable and relaxed. We were so worried the photo process would be weird and awkward, but they made it one of the most fun aspects of the whole day. To top it all off, the photos are simply gorgeous!"

“We gave them a call and they were the first, and only, photographers we spoke with.

View
their
love
story

The Surf Hotel
Buena Vista Colorado Wedding

Chris and Kim

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their
love
story

Mount Princeton
Hot Springs
Wedding

Jarrod and Brittany

View
their
love
story

the Donovan Pavilion Vail Colorado Wedding

Jake and Mary

View
their
love
story

The Barn at Sunset Ranch Buena Vista Colorado Wedding

Hayden and Erin

View
their
love
story

Salida Steamplant Wedding Salida Colorado

Reid and Michael

View
their
love
story

Piney River Ranch Vail Colorado Wedding

Codey and Taylor

Let's BEGIN OUR JOURNEY

We embrace diversity and welcome couples of all backgrounds, religions, genders, races, and sexual orientations with open arms. Your love is unique, and we're here to celebrate it in all its beautiful forms.

We're located in Buena Vista, Colorado, but our love is universal: we shoot worldwide.

Reaching out about your portrait or branding session?

Visit our portrait page

Are you a planner? Click here!

Let's BEGIN OUR JOURNEY

We embrace diversity and welcome couples of all backgrounds, religions, genders, races, and sexual orientations with open arms. Your love is unique, and we're here to celebrate it in all its beautiful forms.

We're located in Buena Vista, Colorado, but our love is universal: we shoot worldwide.

Reaching out about your portrait or branding session?

Visit our portrait page

Are you a couple? Click here!

To honor your time, we will reply to you within 24 hours.

THANK YOU

FOR GETTING IN TOUCH!

If you're simply too excited (we are, too!) and can't wait that long to connect, please feel free to give us a call directly at 720-412-7237.