The couple’s photo session is one of the most important of your wedding day. Many couples decide to opt for the traditional option of not seeing each other before the ceremony and others decide to have them done before the ceremony.
Here, I will tell you the advantages and disadvantages of each option so you can choose the best one for you!
Let’s start with the – BEFORE the ceremony
Why not breaking with tradition and seeing each other before the ceremony to do your couple photoshoot. This is called the first look session.
This choice has some great advantages! First, you get to share a super intimate moment and capture special photos with your significant one. Second, it will also give you a moment to talk and socialize before the ceremony that can help you calm down and calm your nerves since you will be practically alone (along with your photographer of course).
This alternative is a great way to make the most of the cocktail time since once you have done your session, you will be able to spend some time to enjoy and greet your guests.
Also, when is reception time you will be able to enjoy your meal and not have to stop to greet everyone.
If you need an idea of a timeline with a first look you can read my other article “Importance of having a timeline for your wedding” where you will find an example!
I have said it before and I will say it again, first looks are my fave! Why? Because besides making the most of the party time with your guests, it’s when your dress, hairstyle and makeup are in the best condition! And not only you look radiant, but also your partner, family and friends. The photos are the only tangible memory that you will have left of your wedding and I think it is worth taking them calmly, enjoy them and get rid of the pending of having the photo with your grandma from the beginning will leave you calm to simply dedicate yourself to enjoy later.
Let’s continue with the – AFTER the ceremony
If you want to do your couple session after the ceremony, you will have to consider you will need to use the time when your guests are at the welcome cocktail party to take pictures. You will also want to consider we will need to make time for family formal portraits right after the ceremony as well.
The advantages of seeing each other until the ceremony is that you can preserve the tradition and magic of seeing each other going down the aisle. The disadvantages are that you will be a little pressed for time, you also need good logistics to avoid meeting each other beforehand, and you won’t be able to greet your guests properly until you enter the reception.
Here’s a traditional timeline example for you:
12:00pm – Photographer arrives & sets up
12:15pm – Detail photos
12:30pm – Groom getting ready photo
12:45pm – Groom’s Family Photos
1:00pm – Bride getting ready/details
1:30pm – Bride puts on dress
1:45pm – Bride’s Family Photos
2:00pm – Break before Ceremony
2:30pm – Ceremony
3:30pm – Family Formal Portraits
4:00pm – Wedding Party Photos
4:30pm – Couple Session
4:30pm – Receiving Line/Cocktail Hour
5:30pm – Introduce wedding party to reception
6:00pm – Supper
6:15pm – Speeches
7:00pm – Sunset Photos (mini session)
7:45pm – Cut Cake
8:00pm – First Dances
8:30pm – Party
10:00pm – Photographer leaves
Ready to make a decision?
Remember! Both options are good options! No matter which options you choose, don’t forget to talk to your photographer so photos turn out amazing!
