I’ve had a lot of conversations with people recently about the first look, the time we set aside on a wedding day for the couple to see each other for the first time, before the ceremony, and enjoy some time alone together.  A lot of couples on the east coast don’t really like the idea of breaking with tradition, and I do understand that.  But … just look what you can get when you do have a first look – I can’t imagine any couple on earth not wanting photos like these …

In one of Jess’ very first emails to me, she wrote, “I love that you do the first look photo before the ceremony … I just love the emotion you get… I adore Jeremy’s expression when he first saw Ophelia.”  So, Jess – how did we all do?

After spending a little time shooting candids following the first look, we found a sweet spot in the shade for some portraits.  I apologize for the ridiculous size of this first image, but I love it, and I didn’t want to pair it with anything that might detract. 

The kiss is a tricky thing to photograph – because the moment before is absolutely the best bit (when you’re watching, at least).  That third picture is … hot!  And possibly not quite safe for work.  Sorry about that …

And a few final photos of Jess and Chris before we were joined by the bridal party (yup, you guessed it – those will be along tomorrow!)