What makes a first dance special?
There are a lot of "classic" wedding festivities that a lot of couples are passing on on 2025, for example at my own wedding, we did not do a bouquet toss, or the whole garter situation.. Not to mention, technically for my own wedding we eloped and had a surprise one year anniversary party hehehe. The best surprise! Anyway, the moral of my statement here is that despite all the things folks are passing on - the first dance, is one I highly recommend keeping. Of course you don't have to - but it is one of my absolute favourite moments of the day.
So, what makes it special?
Here are some tips from the many weddings I have both photographed and attended that made this moment truly memorable.
Shoutout to Hannah & Rob for being so cuddly and adorable!
I photographed Hannah and Rob's backyard wedding in September of 2024 during a post tropical storm - we had wind, we had rain, we were all soaking wet - and yet spirits were high and just look at this photo of them during their first dance. THIS is what it is all about. Your day can feel chaotic (although I hope it does not for you and I'm here to help you not feel that way!). But this moment, where you get to dance with your partner for the first time as husband and wife in front of all of your loved ones - is so special. (You would never guess Rob gave himself a black eye three days before their wedding, eh?!)
Lighting
My absolute favourite first dances, are ones that have low, romantic, moody lighting. I will always pull my flash out as needed, however there is something so special about the moment when you are in the centre of a candle lit room, with all the people who truly love you surrounding you. Candles are not the only option, the Edison string lights in the photo above are a perfect example of having some stationary lighting that can really make your first dance a moment. Twinkle lights can also be a really beautiful option.
Have your people around you
I absolutely LOVE framing first dance photos with your guests in the background. It is so special to see you and your partner surrounded by the people you love, while you take a moment with each other. Having your friends and family get up from their chairs to stand around you while you dance together for the first time as husband and wife is actually my favourite. Even if it's just your immediate family and wedding party, the photos always end up being so beautiful. Once (when I was a newbie photog my second year in business, my flash died during the first dance and I had the bridesmaids help me out with their phone lights - it was actually so epic! I now have 3 flashes with me at all times so has not happened again but looking back I actually loved that moment, it made it so fun and special - see below and fun fact, Hannah is one of the bridesmaids here!)
Focus on each other
What makes a first dance special, is when you are totally wrapped up in the moment, with each other. Give each other kisses while you dance. Look into each others eyes. Pay attention to only each other, ignore all the people watching (including me with the camera!). Get close and snuggly. Touch your foreheads together. ENJOY the moment. You don't need a fully choreographed dance to make it beautiful, a few spins or lifts here and there are a nice touch but are not necessary if that's not who you are. Be yourselves and celebrate your love together. The photos will show your love for one another.
In summary..
Your first dance does not need to be a big to do to be beautiful. If it is and that is what speaks to you as a couple then I am here for it and I cannot wait to see what you have planned! One thing to remember, is that the whole point is to share that special moment with your partner. Soak it all in, and be yourselves. If you want advice or guidance on how to curate the perfect setting for your first dance I am here to help you
Until next time & with lots of love,
M
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