First Sighting

I want to take a minute to give a little insight into the first sighting. It's a little bit controversial - you might say - because it has been a tradition for a couple to not see each other until the beginning of the ceremony. Why, then, are more and more couples opting to see each other before the ceremony?


One of the main reasons is that the moment of seeing each other can be one filled with emotion that most would like to have beautifully captured.


A ceremony location with people standing all around hardly makes for ideal circumstances for pictures, nor for the couple to spend an intimate moment together.


Having shot so many weddings on video (with a wireless mic on the groom), I can tell you first hand that most couples want to say a few words to each other and catch up on their how their days have gone so far, how great each other look, how they have butterflies in their stomachs.


Once the officiant begins to speak, that is very difficult for them to do. In a first sighting, they can take all the time they need.


Before the ceremony, the couple, the families and the wedding party are fresh and excited about their portraits. They usually look more relaxed


Not only do the portraits look better, but since they're (mostly) finished before the ceremony, the couple has far more opportunity to spend with their guests at the reception (or cocktail hour), which is one of the most important parts of the day.


I don't think I've ever had a couple regret doing the first sighting. They are often very thankful that I encouraged them to do so.


It doesn't mean that it's the only way. Plenty of my couples chose to stick to the traditional way and it's fine.


I just figured I'd give some insight on how it has been in my experience - and that of many fellow photographers.


If you'd like to see more images of first sightings, I'm happy to share them with you. Just give me a holler.

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Oh, and to answer your question; yes, the bride give-away is still a touching and dramatic moment.