Yellows, whites, blues, and greys match really well together.

This is probably the most asked question I get when planning photo sessions. Rightly so! You’re packing for your trip, you want to make sure you bring what you need, I get it!

So here are a few suggestions with examples of what you can wear to make your session yours.

WEAR OUTFITS THAT CAN ALSO DOUBLE AS VACATION OUTFITS

The last thing you want to do is bring EXTRA luggage. I would suggest you bring outfits that work with your vacation wardrobe as well as for our session.

When we’re out on the beach, keeping it light usually helps. So any sundress, shorts, or button-up, etc will work for your session as well as lounging by the pool or a day trip in town.

This is not to say you shouldn’t or can’t bring something just for your session, I’m all for it! I’m just saying that you don’t have to either ;).

SAY NO TO SHOES

Unless we’re going to be walking around exploring the city, I would suggest you bring your comfiest sandals. We’ll most likely take them off once we hit the sand anyway.

I understand too that some people might have aversions to the sand and THAT IS OKAY! Whatever makes you feel the most comfortable during your session the better. If that’s the case, make sure your sandal is a bit more polished than say a flipflop.

COLOR SCHEMES OR MATCHY-MATCHY

I prefer that you coordinate color schemes. Warm blues with mixed grey, reds, beige, and black for example. Pastels work great against the blue of the ocean and sky.

If you can coordinate your family with colors rather than a set outfit, you’ll look more put together as different jeans have different washes.

However, being matchy also works if that’s the look you want! Again these are YOUR PHOTOS and I want you to have exactly what you’re looking for so if matching outfits is what you’d like, then I’m all in!

When it comes to bigger families, I would suggest you coordinate within individual families and then as a whole group. This way each family can stand out but also be a part of the whole group.

I wrote a more in-depth post on multi-family sessions and you can read those tips here.

IN THE END, EVERYTHING LOOKS GREAT

At the end of the day, everything tends to look pretty great against the beautiful background of Puerto Vallarta!

I would say don’t worry about it too much as long as you’ve followed these tips and feel comfortable in what you’re wearing.

If you are going for multiple outfits, please let me know so we can time the session accordingly. We’ll need more time for you to change outfits and coordinate which will look best at what time.

Other than that I hope this article helped you get a better idea of what to wear!

If you need more examples, I suggest that you head to my Instagram and check out my client’s photos and outfits. It’ll give you a better idea of what you’d like to wear and how it all looks put together.

So your WHOLE family is going on vacation and of course it’s the ultimate perfect moment to have portraits taken.

But how does it work?!

Let me tell you that after 15 years as a pro photographer, multi-family sessions are still my favorite! Mostly because it’s so fun to see big families enjoying the sun and surf and also make time for a quick session.

Here are some tips to help it all go smoothly on the day of our session!

TIP 1

Dress in similar colors but not too matchy-matchy. Each smaller family can coordinate further but it’s good to have a color scheme that everyone can wear so that it looks cohesive and coordinated while still giving each family the opportunity to shine.

TIP 2

We’ll get the big group first and from there break up into smaller families. It’s also fantastic if one person can help with coordinating which family is next as well as any variations you’d like. I don’t know your family the way you do so if there’s an aunt you want a photo with or a variation of grandparents with grandchildren, etc, please let me know!

I do not mind taking more photos and getting all of your loved ones photographed in all of the variations possible, I’m here to serve you and these are YOUR photos, so let’s do it all!

TIP 3

Choose one location first and then after we get all the main photos out of the way we can try another. So for example, this family was at a Villa and so we chose this beautiful lush green wall for all of the portraits.

We did have the option of heading down to the beach but they opted not to. Some families like to have a combo and some families are fine with one location.

So just keep in mind if you’d like to change the background, we’ll probably end up doing the second location after we get everyone at the first location.

Uff, I hope that wasn’t confusing!

There you have it! Those are my main tips! For large families, we often won’t get too many candid photos given that we gotta work quickly before we start losing people, 😅.

GUEST POST: Today we have another guest post by lifestyle and fashion writer Sophia Young with some helpful tips to avoid getting cold feet before your wedding! Let us know in the comments what you think!

After months in lockdown and quarantine, many of the weddings that were cancelled or rescheduled are back on. More couples are excited to tie the knot and don’t want to waste any more time before heading into their road forever.  

For some couples, it takes months, while for others it even takes years to plan and prepare each intricate detail of their wedding day which will be shared with the closest family and friends.

However, don’t let wedding day jitters ruin your special day. Use these tips to help you better prepare and enjoy your wedding day!

Make a checklist and keep ticking off it before the wedding comes

When having an important event such as a wedding come, it is important to have a checklist on what you’re about to do so you won’t rush things or miss anything important.

From the start of the planning process to the week before your wedding, sit with your partner and go over the check list. This will help you to see what still needs to be done and also see how much you’ve checked off! 

Do something fun

To avoid feeling stressed, plan something fun to do with your partner to relax and enjoy each other admist all the planning. This way, you can clear your mind to avoid having pre-wedding jitters.

The days leading to your wedding celebration can feel heavy and so taking time to enjoy something fun like a picnic, romantic dinner, or doing an activity that you both enjoy can help destress and take a bit of the pressure off.

Have some time to sit back, look back at everything and allow everything to sink in

Weddings come with a lot of to-do’s that are both necessary and overwhelming, like marriage licenses, church documents, or choosing the perfect vows.

Talk to each other about how far you’ve come and let your feelings be heard regarding your future together and how planning your wedding has been going. Marriage is a big decision and with that comes responsibility to your partner. Share how you feel and know that you’re in this together no matter what.

You may also look at your meaningful promise ring or engagement ring to remind you of why you decided to do this together forever.

 Check in on your soon to be life partner

You may be worried about different things concerning your upcoming wedding, which is why it’s important to check in on your partner through out the planning process.

Checking in on your partner, asking them how they’re feeling, using time to listen to concerns can be really helpful in feeling more prepared for the big day.

While you’ll have the rest of your lives to grow with each other, it’s important to check in before the wedding and keep lines of communication open and honest.

RECAP

Life is full of surprises especially with the right person around, which for you is your soon to be husband or wife! This day is meant to be joyful, so pre-wedding jitters may be something to be laughed at by your guests but this can also mean something more serious.

Taking the time to really talk and connect about the wedding process, the celebration planning, and how you envision life together after the big day is crucial to feel prepared, relaxed, and allow yourselves to really enjoy what the day will bring!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sophia Young is a content writer covering lifestyle and fashion topics. She’s actively participating as a guest blogger for various lifestyle blogs and has been co-authoring some articles of her colleagues. She’s currently enrolled in a content marketing course hoping to expand her knowledge in digital marketing.

Hey friends! I’ve got a great guest post for you today with amazing creative ideas of how to incorporate wall art into your wedding decor from ELEPHANT STOCK. Use these ideas for your ceremony site, cocktail areas, and reception decor! Let me know what you think in the comments and as always - share with other couples getting married so they too can incorporate these ideas into their wedding decor and theme!

I am not receiving any payment for the article nor am I affiliated with the company. They reached out to me offering to write a guest post that I believe is helpful and aligns with you, my audience! Thank you for reading and I hope to bring you more articles like this in the future. :).

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Are you planning a wedding and are you wondering how to decorate the walls at your wedding venue? If you answered yes, then creating a wall art decor is perfect for your wedding. A new unique trend making its way into all weddings, both micro and large.

Your wedding is unique to you and a special day, so every decoration should be according to your mood, style, and wishes. Wall art is a great way to display and express your feelings and sentiments towards your family on this special day.

When people enter your wedding, food and music are not the only things to set the tone of your wedding Venue ambiance plays a vital role in creating the perfect wedding mood on your day. Creating a custom wedding day wall art piece can really help you express your feelings and set the tone of your wedding all to match your current wedding scheme.

Here are some wall art ideas for weddings that you can try in 2021:

Family Photos Collage

A creative display of family photos is a beautiful way to personalize your wedding day. It is an affordable and exciting way to enhance your wedding venue decor.

You can tailor the family photos display depending on which memories you wish to share with guests. There are many family photo wall ideas that you can use on your wedding day. It is a great way to relive memories and wow your guests with this unique decoration style. 

Whether you choose to display your childhood photos or select pictures of yourselves, guests will love to see photographs displayed throughout your venue and wedding day.

You can also create a collage of your photographs to create an interesting wedding focal piece.

Floral Wall Art  

Source: ElephantStock 

If you have a special place in your heart for flowers, you can decorate your wedding with creative and beautiful flower wall art. Using natural flowers can also create a unique floral art piece if you like real flowers.

Floral wall paintings can also add a unique charm to your wedding day without actually using natural flowers. 

You can cover the big wall with floral canvas prints to make your stage look royal and attractive as well. Whether you choose between a more creative and out-of-the-box idea or keep it simple and minimal, both of which will showcase your own wedding personality and style!

Wall decoration with flowers is ideal for outdoor day-time weddings. It’s also a great way to incorporate more eco-friendly decor into the details of your day. 

Frame your Shades of love

If you want to tell your relationship story, you can add photo frames with photos displaying your pre-wedding shoot. In that, you can tell your relationship story in a cute and quirky way to guests.

You can add different photos of how you met, fell in love, and got engaged. Add a legacy element by displaying wedding photos of your parents’ and grandparents’ wedding on the wall too. It is a unique and affordable way to decorate the venue walls.

Wall Decoration with Lights

Lights create a romantic ambiance for wedding decorations. It gives a gorgeous look to the walls and wedding venue, especially at night, creating a muted and intimate feeling to your wedding.

You can use lights on the wedding stage to create a welcoming wedding venue. Consider hanging wall arts with good lights to create a unique and interesting wedding decor. 

Lighting also can be used alongside the walls of the bar or catering section. The colorful lights will create a memorable as well as intimate atmosphere on your wedding day. 

Gallery Wall

A gallery wall or set up is a beautiful way to infuse color and pattern into a wedding area. It is a simple yet creative way to spice up your space. With a wedding-themed gallery wall, you can display amazing elements of your love. 

You can display a collection of you and your family photographs on the gallery wall. It is an impressive way for wedding decoration to turn a wall into a stylish as well as a noticeable focal point. 

You can use pics of different sizes and shapes that can demonstrate your unique ideas. For example, you can include a framed print of your pre-wedding shoots, a canvas print of your engagement, or any other memory. 

Match art to your wedding style with a wall painting or hand-lettered sign

You can paint walls to decorate the wedding venue with a variety of art. Paintings related to music, celebration, love, and marriage quotes complement most wedding venue walls.

Wall paintings also depend on the style of your wedding. For example, if you are going with a more romantic style to your wedding decor consider using calligraphy in the painting or a beautifully hand-lettered sign.

Whichever vibe and feel you’re going for, be it romantic, vintage, or more modern, choose a wall painting that compliments your style perfectly.

Use the wall paintings as a background for the cake, for example, or behind the sweetheart table.

Green Wall Decor 

Source: ElephantStock

If you are looking for a unique wedding decoration idea, consider the green walls for wedding venue decoration. You can cover the wall with all green plants or can hang botanical wall arts as well. This will bring a different charm and freshness to the wedding decor. 

Further, the green wall also serves the purpose of a perfect photo backdrop. It is a unique way for eco-friendly wedding decoration. 

No matter whether your wedding venue is indoor or outdoor, greenery looks great in every space. The best part is that this type of decoration is not too expensive. 

Your wedding is yours to create

Your wedding is very special for you as well as your family. So, wedding decorations should also be unique and special. Wall art for wedding decor is all about personalizing your wedding with something unique that will wow your guests.

Will you try any of the ideas above? Let us know in the comments!

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Thanks for taking the time to read our guest post by Elephant Stock and be sure to check out their art on their site.

A few days ago, the USA put new restrictions on travel - especially returning into the USA via air travel. That’s to say that if you’re taking a plane to Puerto Vallarta, you’ll need a negative COVID-19 test within 3 days of your return flight back to the US.

So let’s break it down…

Do you need a COVID test to get INTO Mexico?

Short answer - No.

Long answer is that if you’re traveling into a location that is in the RED zone, you’ll want to stay cautious and perhaps make sure you’re covid free before jumping on a plane to another country.

You are going to have to fill out a flight form where you write down if you’ve had contact with anyone who has had covid or if you haven’t. Where you’re going and what the reason is for your travel.

You can do this online or at the airport. It’s safer online of course to avoid touching additional surfaces at the airport.

Are COVID tests available in Mexico?

Yes! You can get tested at a wide range of locations and your hotel or travel agent can get the list to you of locations offering the test.

You are responsible for the cost of the test that can range anywhere from 400MXN to 1000MXN pesos (roughly $20-$50 US dollars). Be prepared to pay in cash as well.

Can we stay at a resort?

Yes you can! Resorts are working at 30% capacity and are using many of the regulations required by the Mexican Health Services.

This means that to go in and out of the hotel you’ll need to wear a mask covering your nose, mouth, and chin. You’ll need to wear the mask in public areas and social distance as best you can.

Employees are required to use masks and shields and sometimes they’ll wear gloves.

The resorts are really great at following the restrictions and requirements - unfortunately it really is up to the guest to keep social distancing norms and wear a mask whenever possible.

What about sightseeing / tourist attractions?

At the close of December, the governor of Jalisco reported Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas in the Red Zone. All non-essential businesses are not operating at this time.

You can book private tours however, I don’t believe they’re allowed.

Many of the public plazas and the famous Malecon are closed. This means that you’ll most likely be restricted to your resort unless you rent a car and take it upon yourself to venture out.

Again, you’ll have to wear a mask in all public or spaces where there are people. Going to the stores require masks as well.

Children are not allowed in the stores, is this true?

To my knowledge, this is TRUE. Children under the age of 12, I believe are not allowed into Walmart, grocery stores, or other public stores. Some stores and shopping malls allow children and anyone over 65 enter the spaces during certain hours. For example Walmart has a 7am-11am time slot for children, anyone over 65 and pregnant women.

So make sure you are informed before heading to the store just in case you’re not allowed in with children.

Are you still available for sessions/weddings?

While Puerto Vallarta experiences another lockdown, we are still available for sessions! Most sessions will have to take place at your resort or where ever you’re staying because the public beaches are shut down at the moment. I’ve heard that they’re closing the beaches at 3pm and police do enforce - except if you’re at a resort where a part of the beach is private.

Weddings are happening still and again it is upon the guests and couple to make sure that everyone who attends has been covid free and also follows mask regulations.

I personally wear a mask at all times during the session and keep my distance. I have also been home for most of the 2020 and after traveling to California in Dec., I quarantined for one month and have no symptoms or have signs of COVID. (I will be getting tested soon).

What about the airlines? Can they keep me from entering Mexico?

Airlines are taking the regulations seriously. Temperatures are taken at the airport even before your board your plane. If at anytime someone is exhibiting symptoms, they might not be allowed to get on the plane.

Be a responsible traveler no matter where you go

In the end, Puerto Vallarta continues to host many travelers from all over the world! We are really keeping to the restrictions, mask wearing, and sanitation regulations as much as possible.

In the end, it really is up to YOU. If you have been keeping safe, wearing masks, staying home, and really taking COVID seriously, then traveling shouldn’t be a problem. If you are going to come and stay in the resort, social distance, enjoy the beach with ONLY your pod, then come and enjoy!

If you haven’t been responsible, then I suggest you stay home. COVID has taken 1 million of our citizens and the number continues to grow. We thrive on tourism but not at the expense of peoples’ lives which are the same people who help you have a great stay.

Helpful links:

US Embassy Website with COVID 19 visitor information

Locations for COVID testing in Mexico

Mexican Ministry of Health (Secretaria de Salud Mexico)

I have been a photographer for about 13 years. When I was first starting out, Photoshop was getting into mainstream photography, along with digital. This meant that people, myself included, were editing photos like it was going out of style.

And then, it went out of style.

Over editing photos is not something I do anymore. I stopped over processing photos about 4 years ago because I just felt like the smoothing of skin and over editing colors and adding filters was just TOO MUCH.

My editing style is pretty close to the original image! This is because it keeps the photo timeless.

I also realized that filters are part of trends, and that means that when a trend goes out of style, that editing also goes out of style. And then you’re left with photos that are out of style.

Of course, to each their own. Each photographer has their own particular style and I’m not here to say that it’s wrong or out of date or anything, it just isn’t for me or my clients.

I like to stick to a nice elegant and timeless look with the photos that I create. I feel like editing this way means that your photos will never look dated or out of style.

What do I do then? I color correct, bump up the warmth, take out blemishes, clean up the skin a bit and brighten and add contrast. It’s very minimal and takes me less time to edit which also means your photos get to you sooner.

Editing this way has revolutionized my time in front of the computer and lets me focus more on the creative part of my photography.

I love letting my clients see exactly firsthand what they can expect to see when they get their final images. So, I’ve pulled together some before and after photos so you can see exactly how I edit the photos!

What do you think? What kind of look do you like to have for your photos?

Getting your family portraits taken while on vacation is a wonderful time spent because your family can hang out, have fun, and get some meaningful and one-of-a-kind memories captured.

However, there are some things you should prep before visiting and getting photos taken. I’m gonna delve into some of the best tips to consider so that you feel really prepared and don’t have to worry about a thing!

By the way, a portrait session only takes about an hour and half and doesn’t carve too much time out of your vacation so if you’re interested in booking a session, let me know! We’ll get it booked!

WARDROBE

I get this question a lot and it can feel like an overwhelming decision because you definitely want your photos and family to look class and timeless, yet you don’t want to have to worry about over packing or packing something that will take up space in your luggage.

Let me be the first one to tell you: WHATEVER YOU WEAR WILL LOOK GREAT! The beach makes for the perfect background that really lets you shine against the beautiful blue waters and setting son.

As long as you don’t use any patterns that are distracted. Using color schemes instead of trying to be too matchy-matchy can work really well. Follow your kids’ lead and if they feel comfortable in something you can try and keep that look for the session for everyone.

In the end, you’re on vacation and your vacation wardrobe works well for your portrait session because I’ll make sure you look and feel comfortable in anything you decide to wear!

WHEN TO VISIT

This is also the biggest factor in getting portraits taken. The best weather here in Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas is from October to May. This is when the heat subsides and the humidity as well.

However, during this time, it is also high season and the sun sets closer to 6:30 pm. High Season also comes with more festive days in Mexico and more visitors to the area than the rest of the year. So the beaches might be crowded or there might be people in the background… don’t worry because I’ll be able to retouch them out ;).

In the summer months, it rains off and on and so it can put a damper on your session. Usually, it rains heaviest during August and September. The good thing though, is that the sun sets at the latest time of the entire year - close to 9 pm! So sunset can always happen after the afternoon showers and we can still get great photos taken!

BUY WHAT YOU CAN HERE INSTEAD OF BRINGING IT

The best thing about visiting a high touristic location is that many of what you can get in your country, you can get it here, especially products from the US. We have various pharmacies for things like bug repellent (the green OFF brand is the most effective one!), Walmart, Sam’s and Costco, and many other various supermarkets that will have anything you need.

Like wipes, diapers, and sunblock you can also get it at these stores. So if you can save yourself some weight and worry, just get it here. Many hotels also are equipped with stores that have lots of the basic things that you’ll need. Super handy just in case you forget something too!

I have to focus on bug repellent for a moment: BRING BUG REPELLENT. It’s a must, especially if you’re going to be staying at a location that has luscious gardens or lots of vegetation. The mosquitos usually come out right before sunset, which is when most of my photo sessions take place.

Usually, during the summer, it is more saturated with bugs, winter we get a little bit of a break, but still, because of the hotel’s greenery, the mosquitos are really annoying so bug repellent is really important.

I usually carry some with me but sometimes, I also tend to forget! There are a few natural made bug repellents as well so just look for the ones that have more essential oils than the OFF brands.

SNACKS, DRINKS, TOYS & EXTRA CLOTHES

I think I put this tip in almost off of my posts that offer tips for better photo sessions because I can’t stress enough how snacks, an apple juice, some toys, and extra clothes can make a huge difference in a kid meltdown or a kid having the best time of his life.

You don’t have to bring these with you from home unless you have a specific diet, the hotels offer snacks and drinks for kids that can make the session run more smoothly. It seems like I have to give snacks every 15 minutes of my life so I make sure to carry snacks when ever I leave the house. It also works for bribes in getting real smiles!

Toys are another thing you don’t have to necessarily bring from home. Most shops in the hotels or surrounding areas have sand toys that your kids can have a blast playing with during the session.

And last but not least, bring extra clothing. If you’ve chosen carefully what you’re going to wear, bring another outfit that also works. Because kids will run into the water, get sandy, drip juice, and well, you know the drill ha! So extra clothes make for an easier transition rather than having to cut the session short.

Luckily, I can come to you for the session and photograph your family at your hotel’s beach area so we are close to all the things you’ll ever need. I hope these tips prepare you for the best portrait experience yet! If you are wondering how you can book a session with me, email me hello@jackielamas.com.

Hi friends!

Today we have a special treat for you that I think you’ll find it super useful!

Photo hanging hacks that won’t ruin your walls and can even save you time and money! Brought to you by Quill as a collaboration because we want your photos displayed beautifully and conveniently as well!

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Hang photos and art beautifully and easily!

A lovely new painting, print, or photograph can be a great way to dress up a blank spot on a wall or change up the look of a room. But too often than not, hanging a frame becomes an exercise in damaging a wall.

Luckily, there are steps you can take to make sure that your wall stays pristine and your new frame hangs without worry.

For starters, you have to ensure that your frame has secure support in order to actually hang from the wall. Some frames do come with hangers that are appropriate for their size and weight. Others do not, and if that’s the case you’ll have to adjust your approach.

Old-fashioned soda can tops can be a great stand-in for holes or hangers that are absent.

Want more steps to follow to ensure a beautiful hanging job and a beautiful framed piece of art to look at? Take a peek at this graphic.

Hanging hacks that won’t ruin your wallsInfographic by Quill

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Make sure you pin this and save for when you need it! Never thought of using toothpaste to mark the spot seems so easy!

Which hack are you gonna try?

Read more articles like this on Quill.com

This year has been one for the books, hasn't it? That being said, the boarders have reopened and flights are coming in and out of the city. And with winter coming in now, you'll probably want to get outta the snow and into some good ol' sunshine.

Current pandemic status:

Right now, Puerto Vallarta has had a low index of people who have been infected by the virus. That being said, hotels have been restricted to only 30% capacity so it might be a little difficult to find a room at one of the more popular resorts, thankfully, Puerto Vallarta has plenty of great hotels both big and small that offer so many great amenities.

Regulations, requirements, and restrictions:

Hotels are being regulated and the Secretary of Health has been inspecting and certifying hotels so that they follow the new regulations. This means you'll see employees in masks and face shields, some will wear gloves, and at almost every corner you'll find some hand sanitizer. Also, all rooms are subject to the same regulations and you'll find them taped shut with a seal of sanitation to make sure that each and every room has been sanitized according to the new regulations.

All guests are required to wear masks upon entering the hotel and to keep their distance as they enjoy the pool, restaurants, and other hotel amenities. You won't find gyms open or kid’s clubs, but you can still enjoy a relaxing vacation by the pool and the beach.

Downtown areas are being restricted and you'll find lots of shops, bars, and restaurants closed. However, you will also find lots of local spots open where you can grab lunch, enjoy the sunset by the boardwalk - the famous Malecon - and walk around Old Town Vallarta.

Clubs and nightlife have been restricted again during this second lockdown and so you might find your hotel a better place to socially distance nightlife - but if you can, stay away from others and keep your distance with your mask on for safety.

Be mindful and keep to pandemic "rules"

We love having people come and enjoy our beaches, boardwalk, sights, and sunsets, however, I've seen many tourists come and not wear masks while out on the town and just plainly disregarding regulations for the pandemic.

Wear your mask, use it along with a face shield, and respect the locals. We would hate for you to get covid or bring covid into our country just because you didn't want to stay home and follow the pandemic rules.

Yes, it’s safe to visit!

Together we can get through this and once again enjoy vacations as a whole but for now, keep to your own pod/group, wear your mask whenever possible, and respect the country and local regulations.

And... if you feel comfortable, get a portrait session with a socially distancing, regulation following, friendly photographer - me!

You might have seen it over and over again as you started planning your wedding on Pinterest or on the blogs of other photographers, planners, and coordinators.  Are you wondering what a First Look actually is? 

What is a First Look?

First Looks are not new, I'm sure they've been around for a long time but really come to become the new tradition about 7 years ago.  Since then they have taken lots of different forms but to put it simply, it's when the couple sees each other before the ceremony.  

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Why do a First Look?

There are many reasons that a First Look might come into play during your wedding day.  In my experience, it usually happens for one of two reasons:

1. To take advantage of the light. For example, if your getting married in the fall and your ceremony is at 4pm, that doesn't leave much time for portraits of the two of you. It cuts into time with family, perhaps a cocktail hour, or another event during your day. To take advantage of the light, we'll schedule the portrait session before the ceremony when light is abundant. This way we ensure that you have great photos of the two of you with lots of time.

2. Another reason couples opt for a First Look instead of staying with the traditional see-you-after-the-ceremony, is to have a moment alone together. Usually, after the ceremony, there really isn't much time spent as a couple, alone, together. Having a couple of hours just the two of you really makes the day even more special.

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How does it work?

The great thing about the First Look is that when you see each other, right after you ease right into the portrait session.  It is a seamless transition that allows for many more photos during your day and also allows the photographer to get those must have shots as well as experiment a little bit without eating time from major events on the day of.  I'm sure that was a run on sentence but you get the idea.  

This is especially important if light is an issue during your day.  After all, your photographs are all that you'll have left and you want to make sure you have the most beautiful photographs of you and your partner!

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But it'll take away the surprise!

FALSE! There is nothing wrong with keeping it traditional, I have many couples who opt for traditional all the time and everything works out perfectly.  However, thinking that seeing each other before the wedding takes away from walking down the aisle, IT DOESN'T at all!

I have had clients who are beyond nervous and quite frankly need more than a shot or two before the wedding, and after the First Look have expressed to me that it was the best decision because it made them even MORE excited to see their love walk down the aisle.  

My husband and I also opted for a first look and we got some of our favorite images from it! It was a nice time to see each other and be alone for a bit before seeing our friends and family for the rest of the day.  It definitely calmed my nerves! 

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Whether you opt to go the traditional route or do a First Look, just know that you have options.  Make sure you talk with your photographer to see which suits your day the best.  

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