We have decided on an awesome Photographer. However, he's only available for a couple hours before he has to attend another wedding. Therefore, he suggested to take our Bride and Groom photos before the ceremony so we don't feel rushed (Reception immediately following). He will be there to take the ceremony pics and his assistant will be at the reception for just an hour. I really don't know how much time it takes to do the photo session. I personally would wait until after the ceremony, but I want great pictures in the end. What would you do?
I personally don't want to see my FH before the ceremony, but I really think that it is just a personal preference! If you think that you will get better pics doing them before the ceremony then go for it! :)
So what I think we are going to do is just take a moment by ourself before we take our pictures together so that we can see eachother and kind of have an intimate moment, ya know :) We can just meet together in a room. I know that some brides and groom exchange a small gift or love note before the ceremony, so this would be a great chance to do that!
So I would just suggest that you make it special and take time together to appreciate eachother.
I know that it is a tradition and kind of a superstitious thing, but there is something that my FH always tells me about wedding superstitions. He says that he isn't going to rely on superstitions to determine our relationship. He says that he loves me and that nothing can change that. And he says that he will rely on God to determine our fate. Not superstitions.
I just think that's so cute that he says that! I love it! And it's so true!
So whatever you choose will be fine. Just work with it and make it special! :)
It sounds like it may be a wise decision in your case, though.
You'll only get wedding pictures once. And while it is wonderfully romantic not to see each other until you walk down the aisle, your pictures will be what stick around after that.
This doesn't have to be scientific, though. You can still make that moment special, and instruct your photographer to get those "first sight" expressions. Have a special place for the two of you to meet, and build up the anticipation for him by walking up behind him and then letting him turn around to see you. It can be just as special as that first glance of you walking down the aisle.
Have the photographer capture the groom and groomsmen in all their photos, and the groom and his family.
Then, have the photographer do the same for the bride, her bridesmaids and bride's family.
After the ceremony, get a few shots of the entire bridal party, a shot or two with you guys with your parents, then a few of just the two of you.
go for it girl all you are going to have show for your wedding are your pictures.