Pictures Before or After the Ceremony? Which is Best?

We often ask our brides whether they are open to taking pictures with the groom before the ceremony because it offers us more time to take pictures of them as a couple. Responses vary. Some brides say "Absolutely, yes!" while others are reluctant because they value the tradition of not seeing the groom until going down the aisle. We gladly honor your wishes no matter what you decide, but I can't help but try to influence you to consider taking pictures before the ceremony if you are currently on the traditional side. Let's review some of the pros and cons.

Pros
1) You will likely receive 40-60 more pictures as a couple because we have more time to take them.
2) More backgrounds and locations can be used for pictures. For an evening wedding, darkness often diminishes the number of locations we can use after ceremony, especially outside locations.
3) You won't feel as rushed. Many brides think they won't feel rushed after the ceremony when everyone is waiting for them at the reception, but our experience proves differently. We are AGAINST any bride feeling rushed on her wedding day!
4) More alone time with your groom on your wedding day! This benefit is often overlooked. Pictures before the ceremony offer the chance to relax and spend quality time with each other.
5) We have never had a bride say, "I wish I hadn't decided to take pictures before the ceremony." In fact, all brides who have agreed to take pictures before the ceremony have thanked us for the idea.
6) More time enjoying that beautiful dress!
7) More time to have fun with the rest of the wedding party.

Cons
1) You may be breaking tradition, and tradition may be very important to you. Parents sometimes disagree with picture taking before the ceremony, and that may be your motivation. Just remember, it is your wedding!
2) You must get ready earlier.

Maybe you can tell we are biased. :)  Regardless of your decision, we will make the most of the opportunity and provide you with beautiful pictures.

In the above photo, you can see me taking a picture of a bride and groom before their ceremony at their favorite tree.  The rest of the wedding party was also there (some were even taking their own pictures), allowing us more time to take group pictures as well.  What you don't see is all of the jokes, laughs, and fun they are having while enjoying each other's company.  They would not have had this opportunity had pictures been taken after the ceremony.  Two results are shown below.