The Importance of a First Look Before Your Wedding Ceremony

One fascinating thing that comes with being a wedding photographer is witnessing so many different traditions. While some couples opt for more modern approaches, others stick with time-honored customs. Every relationship is different, and that's one thing I love most about my job - every photoshoot is unique.

One tradition I've seen become increasingly popular in recent years is the 'first look.' If this is the first time you have heard of this and haven’t considered getting some wedding first look pictures - read on to find out why this beautiful tradition might be perfect for you.

What is a First Look?

A first look is a chance for the couple to see each other before the wedding ceremony starts. They are often dressed in their wedding attire, creating a sweet memory you should consider adding to your wedding photography timeline. An emotional wedding first look allows for a few private moments between the couple before their big day begins.

With just the loved-up couple and their photographer capturing the moment, it can be an incredibly intimate and special experience that you will remember forever.

What Is the Importance of a Wedding First Look?

There are many reasons a couple may want to have a first look on their big day. Each couple will have their own motives, but as an idea, here are some popular ones:

To Reduce Nerves

Let's face it - weddings can be pretty nerve-wracking! If you're the type of person who gets anxious about big events, a first look might be perfect for you. Seeing your partner before the ceremony can help calm your nerves and allow you to enjoy a worry-free wedding ceremony.

Not only this, but having a bridal detail checklist (which includes an emotional wedding first look!) can also help everything run smoothly on the day. This allows you to relax and savor every moment.

Get Emotional First Look Pictures

Capturing the love and emotion between a couple on their wedding day is one of the most important jobs for a photographer. It is these kinds of moments that create the best wedding photos. While there are plenty of opportunities to get some lovely shots during the ceremony and reception, a first look allows us to capture that raw emotion in a more intimate setting.

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The results provide some truly stunning yet sentimental wedding first look pictures. But, a first look doesn't have to be between the couple. Capturing some delightful moments, like a first look wedding with dad or grandparents, creates memories to cherish forever.

Allows You to Savor the Moment

Your wedding day is going to be a whirlwind, and it can be hard to find time to truly savor the moment. Seeing each other before the ceremony gives you a chance to do just that. You can take a few deep breaths, relish in the fact that you're getting married, and enjoy each other's company before the big day begins.

Wedding First Look - Do Whatever Feels Right for You

It’s your wedding, and you should do whatever feels right. If you're not sure a first look is for you, then have a chat with your photographer. They can offer guidance and advice and help you make the best decision for your big day.

If you're interested in the concept and want some wedding first look ideas, then here are some you can use:

• Wedding first look with the couple: This is the most popular first look. It is an incredibly emotional moment that makes for some beautiful wedding first look pictures.

• First look wedding with dad and/or mom: The first look with your parents is a lovely way to capture some sentimental moments.

• First look with bridesmaids/groomsmen: This is an excellent option if you want to include your wedding party in your first look.

• First look with children: If you have children, then the first look with them can be an adorable moment. They will often get just as emotional as you!

Final Thoughts on The Importance of a First Look before Your Wedding Ceremony

So, there you have it - everything you need to know about having a wedding first look. Emotional, beautiful, and special, it is something to consider for your big day. Whether you opt for a first look wedding with dad or some other wedding first look ideas - I would love to capture the moment for you.

If you're looking for a wedding photographer based in San Francisco who can take some emotional wedding first look photos, please get in touch. I would be more than happy to discuss your wedding day with you!

The Only Fall Style Guide You Need for 2022!

What to wear for Instagrammable Fall Family Photos

Fall, or Autumn, is a wonderful time to spend outdoors. This is the time when the warmth of the previous summer still lurks, and the cool breeze of the next summer lets you know it's not too far. Nature has also changed its color to a picturesque warmer tone of earthy brown, yellows, and orange.

If you are planning to visit San Francisco, autumn is one of the best times to visit the city with your family. There are tons of things to do in San Francisco with kids around this time. So while you might have to carry scarves and light sweaters, you can enjoy bright sunny days too.

Often, people choose the fall season to get their family portraits clicked. The soft light, the earthy warmth, and the lovely colors of the leaves make a beautiful backdrop for the picture. If you, too, are planning to get your family photographs done by a professional photographer in the Fall season, you might wonder what you and your family members should wear for the photoshoot.

This Fall Style Guide is specially curated for you to make sure you and your family look their best in their Fall Family Photographs.

How to Choose Outfits For Fall Family Photo Shoots?Investing in a Fall Family Photoshoot makes it natural to get concerned about your outfits. Style experts suggest choosing outfits that would complement the season. Here are a few basic principles you should keep in mind when you open the cupboard to select your outfits.

• Dress for your environment.

• Keep the weather in mind.

• Build your outfit around the same color palette.

• Choose clothes with different layers and textures.

• Avoid clothes that have bold pictures or slogans on them.

• Wear well-fitting clothes.

Color Palette for Charming Autumn Family Portraits:

Springs and summers are colorful and bright seasons. Thus, photographers recommend wearing neutral shades during this time. On the other hand, the Fall season can be very welcoming to a wide range of color palettes.

Style experts recommend choosing at least 3-4 complementary colors to base your family’s outfits on. Of course, this does not mean all family members would wear the same color clothing. Instead, we must aim to complement each other’s apparel.

A soft palette with pastel shades can work wonderfully for your fall photoshoot. You can choose from creams, dusty pinks, powder blue, rust, and even soft brown colors for your outfits. If you prefer deeper colors, you can opt for Prussian blue, mustard yellow, and cherry red.

What Colors Should You Avoid?

Now that we have an idea about the colors we should look for, we need to understand what colors we need to avoid. Black is a big no-no around this time of year. Also, bright, neon-colored outfits clash with the soft autumn backdrop and make you look washed out in the photographs.

If you are planning on shopping for new outfits for the shoot, sorting the perfect complementary colors for your family can be one of the fun things to do in San Francisco with kids.

A Few More Tips:

1. Plan Ahead

Once you have booked your photoshoot session, start planning the shooting location, outfits, and accessories you want to use. You surely don’t want your kids to seem shabby in the photographs. So pick the clothes that fit your kids the best. Keep them aside to prevent them from getting soiled. If needed, get your outfits dry cleaned well before the planned shoot day. Also, set your accessories and jewelry aside that you are going to wear for the photoshoot.

Though most of us try to prepare our outfits beforehand, we often forget about footwear. Deciding on your shoes in advance will help you avoid confusion on the photoshoot day. You can even book an appointment in the Spas in San Francisco a day before to prepare for the photoshoot.

2. Choose Your Outfits According to The Location

Keep the location in mind when you choose outfits for your family. If you have selected a park or wood for the photo shoot, avoid wearing too many orange and brown outfits, as they will camouflage with the leaves and trees.

If you are having a beach photoshoot, try wearing darker outfits that will appear more prominent against the backdrop of sand and water. Cooler shades of blue, green, beige and a little pop of coral will transform the look of the final image.

You can get your photos clicked in a pumpkin patch. The orange pumpkins will give a vibrant backdrop to your portraits. Denim jeans or jackets will look awesome against the background. A combination of chunky knits, a little pop of color, and denim blue will make the most wall-worthy portraits.

3. Be Prepared for Any Temperature

Autumn can be a tricky time to dress. The bright sun outside might urge you to wear something light, whereas the chilly winds might make you wear a sweater or a scarf. So, when your family is getting ready for the photo shoot, make sure you stay prepared for both.

Curate a set of outfits for your family members that can be complemented with a light coat or a sweater so that you can just put them on when the temperature drops. When the weather is warm enough, you can remove your coats and get a sharper and cleaner look.

4. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Your family portraits will hopefully grace the walls of your living room for years to come. Wearing outfits of the same color palette will give the photograph a more balanced look. However, wearing outfits of the same color can spoil the vibe of the final image. The key is to coordinate your family’s outfits so that you complement each other in the portrait.

5. Say No To Characters

Your kids may love their Captain America shirt but keep it away for the family photoshoot. Large, bold characters on the outfits can seem distracting. Instead, try solid-colored shirts, plaids, or light motifs.

8. Keep your Home Decor in Mind

If you plan to hang your family photographs in your living room, keeping your home decor in mind when picking outfits is crucial. The color scheme of your house can either make the photos eye-catching or wash them out.

You can try wearing contrasting colors for the family portrait if you have dark-colored walls. Or, if you have light-colored walls, you can wear denim and dark-colored coats and scarves. It will help the family photographs look lively and prominent.

9. Be Comfortable

We know you want everyone to look their best in the family photograph. You will look your best if you are comfortable with what you are wearing. If you love wearing dresses, don’t try to squeeze into a pair of jeans.

Also, choose your kid’s outfit according to their comfort. If you are kids are comfortable in jeans or skirts, let them wear those. Forcing them to wear something they do not like will make them uncomfortable, and the discomfort will be evident in the photos.

If you have a little baby, make sure you put them in something snug and cozy. Putting them in prickly clothing can make them fussy. And, you surely do not want that on the photoshoot day.

10. Do Not Forget to Add Accessories

Accessories can not only help add a different edge to your outfit but they can also be used as little props in the portraits. Your family photo is not just about smiling faces; it is also about projecting who you are as a family.

For example, adding a stylish hat or necklace for your baby to play with can give your family portrait a natural, heartwarming look. Vibrant scarves and mufflers can also add a fun dimension to the images. The possibilities are endless.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How should I dress for Fall portraits?

Your fall photographs will have a lot of green, orange, red, and yellow colors in the background, ideally. You would have to curate an outfit that will complement the Fall foliage.

Typically, pure white and black do not go well with the vibrant background. Instead, you can try warmer shades like rust, denim blue, and brown. If you still want to wear black, you can layer it with vibrant-colored coats, cardigans, and scarves.

2. How many outfits do I need for a photoshoot?

Usually, a Fall Family/couple photography session lasts for about 30-60 minutes. We recommend setting aside at least 2-3 outfits that coordinate with different backgrounds. An assortment of outfits will ensure a lot of variety in your family portraits.

3. What should I pack for the photoshoot?

Here are a few things you should consider packing for the photoshoot.

1. A change of clothes

Getting all your photos clicked in the same outfit will make your family album look monotonous. A change of clothes will refresh the frame and add charm to your family album. Make sure the clothes are comfortable.

It is natural for most people to feel a little self-conscious in front of the camera. A set of comfortable clothes can go a long way in bringing out a natural expression in the portraits. Avoid too much detailing in your outfits to ensure your faces are at the center of attraction.

2. Hairbrush or comb

The breeze can mess with your hair if you are shooting in the park or on a hiking trail. Thus, it is wise to bring a hairbrush and clips to fix your hair before taking a photograph. It will make you look clean and sharp.

3. Makeup

Light makeup can help you look refreshed in portraits. We recommend carrying a compact powder and lip gloss to touch up your face before the shoot. The powder will help get rid of the oily shine of the face and give you a matte look. A swipe of lipgloss will liven up your face.

4. Little refreshments

Family photoshoots can be time-taking. We recommend you carry a bottle of water and a few light edibles.

Final Thoughts!

Autumn can be a wonderful time to get your family photographs clicked. The Fall foliage will give you a lively backdrop for the portraits. However, the outfits you wear for the picture are also as important as the backdrop. We hope this style guide has helped you understand what to wear for your Fall family portraits.

I am a San Francisco photographer who specializes in Family Lifestyle Portraiture. Making timeless and Authentic portraiture is always my goal in capturing your family’s milestone. Let’’s chat and start making beautiful print-worthy images . Please Click the link to learn more

Bridal Detail Checklist for Your Wedding Day

On your wedding day, you already have enough on your plate. The entire day can feel like a whirlwind, and with everyone running around, it can be hard to keep up and ensure you keep your thoughts straight. You may be sure you have everything in order, but you will soon find that checklists are your best friend when putting together the biggest day of your life. 

Your checklist will include everything you need to help avoid last-minute panic and last-minute runs to the store. To ensure nothing is overlooked, you’ll want to put everything together weeks prior to your wedding day. This bridal detail checklist for your wedding day is just the one to keep you on task with your eyes on the prize and ensure everyone makes it through the day.

Bridal Suite Preparations – You will spend a lot of time getting ready with your bridal party. Be sure to bring tissue, hand wipes, a portable speaker, and snacks and drinks.

Bring a Comfortable Pair of Flats for the Reception – Wearing heels all day can end up causing you discomfort and even pain. You want to be in peak condition for dancing, so bring your favorite flats so you can dance the night away.

Wedding Outfit – This one may seem obvious, but you don’t want to forget a single detail. It even deserves its own checklist within a checklist. Bring:

• Your wedding dress

• Veil and hair accessories

• Lingerie

• Garters

• Jewelry

• Something new, something borrowed, and something blue

• Your engagement ring

A Full Emergency Repair Kit – Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Prepare and bring an emergency repair kit for any repair that may be needed. This is probably the most essential kit you’ll need, so you will want to bring:

• A sewing kit

• Double-sided tape

• Breath mints and gum

• Tampons

• Scissors

• Safety pins

• Nail file and nail polish that matches your nail color

• Aspirin and antacids

• Bandages

• Tide-To-Go pen

Remind the Wedding Party to Bring a Bag – Everyone will be arriving in normal attire and changing into their formal clothing. They will want something to store their stuff and for their gifts. Check out What Bridesmaids Should Pack with Them for the Wedding for more information on what your wedding party should bring!

Put Together a Wedding Day Bag – Your wedding day bag is one of the more essential preparations on your wedding day. It will include your rings, vows, marriage license, tips for your vendors, and extra copies of your checklists.

Bring Charged Phones and Portable Charges – Your cell phones will be essential for taking your own photos or if you need to make important calls to vendors. A charged phone can ensure you don’t have to worry about your phone dying mid-day. 

Having a detailed checklist of everything you may need on the day of your wedding may seem like an insignificant detail. It can be just the thing to save the day and ensure every detail is perfect. With a bridal detail checklist, you get to have fun and keep your focus on what this day is really about. 

Capturing your wedding moments is just as important as the day itself. You want to have amazing photos to look back on as you celebrate anniversaries and show off to friends and family. As a bay area wedding photographer, I can help you capture your special day and create memories to last a lifetime. Contact me and let’s talk about your wedding day!