A question that always comes up when preparing to photograph a wedding is whether the couple plans to see one another before the ceremony.  There is no question that doing so makes the wedding day flow more smoothly in many, many ways.

First and foremost, the couple is invariably SO much more relaxed once they see one another, and it makes the pre-ceremony time much more enjoyable for them.  I always make clear that we will still make “the moment” a very special one, planning it out and finding a beautiful spot that will make for great photos.

They’ll still get to experience the fun and anticipation of getting ready separately…

I love taking the opportunity for a portrait of the groom as he waits for his lady…

A sweet shot as she makes her entrance…

And then, finally, “the reveal”…

In my book, I describe my method of shooting this moment as a kind of choreographed dance.  It’s definitely one of the more “directed” moments of the day, which allows me to capture all the many varied aspects of the moment.

Logistically, of course, it makes the photo schedule much more manageable when the couple sees one another ahead of time because we can ask the family and wedding party to arrive early and then get most, if not all, of the obligatory (and often dreaded) “group shots” out of the way.  This makes the “formal” session much more pleasant for everyone involved (not just the photographer!) for a couple of reasons.  First, people are more inclined to pay attention and follow instructions during the calmer, pre-ceremony time period, so we can blow through the list much more quickly.  Second, there is no cocktail hour to lure them away, or cause them the pain of watching other guests enjoy the party while they are stuck waiting for their turn to be photographed.  And of course, the beauty for everyone involved is that once the ceremony is over, they CAN actually go enjoy that cocktail hour.

If the ceremony is later in the day and close to sunset, there is even more reason for the couple to see one another so that we can take advantage of the natural light for some beautiful outdoor photography before it gets dark.  It’s just silly to painstakingly select a drop-dead gorgeous setting for one’s wedding, and not take advantage of using it while it’s still daylight!

If my clients are truly dead-set against seeing one another before the ceremony, I abide by their wishes.  But I’m glad to see that more and more couples are deciding to see one another ahead of time, as it really does make the day more enjoyable for everyone involved.