Dancing into Forever: Creating the Perfect First Dance Moment
The first dance is a timeless tradition that marks the beginning of your journey as a married couple. It's a moment filled with love, romance, and anticipation, and one that you'll cherish for a lifetime. In this article, we'll explore how to create the perfect first dance moment and capture photographs that will stand the test of time.
Choose the Right Song
The first step in creating the perfect first dance moment is choosing the right song. Whether you opt for a classic love ballad, a contemporary hit, or a sentimental favourite, the song should hold special meaning for you and your partner. Take the time to select a song that reflects your relationship and sets the tone for the rest of the evening.
I’ve heard old-school classics, orchestral masterpieces, and even some rock & roll! There’s nothing off limits when it comes to picking a song, no genre is off the table. Some couples will have a ‘song’ that’s there’s already, which is usually a great pick - otherwise, i’d recommend hitting up Spotify together and listening to a tonne of different options and creating a top 10 each!
Practice Makes Perfect
While spontaneity can add charm to your first dance, a little bit of practice can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and memorable performance. Schedule some time to practice your dance together, whether it's a simple sway or a choreographed routine. This will help you feel more confident and relaxed on the dance floor.
If you’re wanting a longer, more choreographed dance, it’s best to start 3-6 months in advance, once a week, so the dance becomes second nature to you. Even if you’re thinking about slow dancing together, practice one a week in the month leading up to your wedding day, and look up a few basic dance moves that will really elevate your dance. I’m talking a dip, a spin, or even picking them up and spinning! These kinda moves really bring the vibe to the dance floor, especially if people think you’re ‘not the type’ to go full-out like this!
Kim & Matt - Ottimo House
Set the Stage
Consider the ambiance and lighting of your reception venue when planning your first dance. Soft, romantic lighting can enhance the mood and create a magical atmosphere for your dance. Work with your wedding planner or venue coordinator to ensure that the lighting complements the moment and sets the stage for beautiful photographs.
Having pyrotechnics behind you, or surrounding you, can give you unique and flattering lighting for parts of your dance. Turning off the ‘house lights’, and using just one or two feature lights looks amazing too. This is what I normally recommend to my couples, because if we’re filming the first dance as well, having one or two back lights help the moment seem so much more magical and picturesque. Lastly - avoid the spotlights. The spotlights at wedding reception venues are usually unmanned, and a bit of a let down. They photograph and film really poorly, as you’ll naturally move around the dance floor during the dance and out of the light.
Embrace the Moment
On your wedding day, the first dance is about more than just dancing – it's about celebrating your love and commitment to each other. Take a moment to pause and soak in the significance of the moment. Look into each other's eyes, share a smile, and let the rest of the world fade away as you dance together as newlyweds.
The backlights can really help with this, because they’ll literally make it harder to see outside the dance floor, and help you focus on whats right in front of you - your wife and future!
Capture the Emotion
When it comes to photographing the first dance, it's all about capturing the emotion and connection between you and your partner. Focus on capturing candid moments of genuine emotion – the way you look at each other, the tender touches, and the joyous smiles. These authentic moments will make for the most memorable and heartfelt photographs.
Work with Your Photographer
Communicate with your photographer beforehand to discuss your vision for the first dance and any specific shots you'd like to capture. Whether it's a close-up of your hands intertwined, a sweeping shot of the dance floor, or a candid moment between you and your partner, your photographer can help bring your vision to life.
The one recommendation I make to couples, is to just remember where the ‘back’ and the ‘front’ of the dance floor is. This is because most of the highlights, or the final moments, are shot from the ‘front’ with the ‘back’ being the backdrop of the moment - and keeping it in mind well help your photographer in capturing the moment perfectly!
Have Fun
Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy the moment. Your first dance is a celebration of your love and the beginning of your life together as a married couple. Don't worry about perfection – focus on being present in the moment and savoring this special time with your partner.
In conclusion, the first dance is a magical moment that sets the tone for the rest of your wedding celebration. By choosing the right song, practicing together, and embracing the moment, you can create a first dance that is both meaningful and memorable. With careful planning and collaboration with your photographer, you can capture photographs that beautifully document the love, joy, and romance of this special moment.
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