There's nothing quite like that magical moment when you see the love of your life for the first time on your wedding day! Whether you choose to do a first look or wait for the grand reveal at the altar, it's always an intimate, emotional experience – and as a photographer, it's one of my absolute favorites to capture!
I have to say, though, I’m a huge fan of first looks! They're simply amazing. But I get it – some couples worry it’s too “non-traditional” and quickly write it off. While I don’t require my couples to have a first look, I always recommend it because there are so many perks!
Let me share a few reasons why a first look can be a total game-changer for your wedding day!
More Time for Beautiful Portraits
A first look on your wedding day gives you the gift of time, making your entire day more relaxed. Without the pressure of cramming all your portraits into cocktail hour, you can actually enjoy your day and your guests won’t have to wait for you to return. In fact, with a first look, you’ll end up with about 40% MORE portraits of just the two of you! And trust me, these are the photos you’ll want to hang on your walls and treasure forever. Wedding days with first looks always feel smoother, and there’s so much more space for you to truly soak in the joy of your day!
A First Look on Your Wedding Day Let's You Spend More Time Together
First looks on a wedding day let you extend the time you get to spend with your partner. Instead of waiting until you walk down the aisle to see each other, you get to spend nearly three extra hours together before the ceremony even begins! No more hiding or rushing through your portraits. Instead, you’ll actually enjoy those moments, hanging out with your favorite people, and soaking in the magic. It’s always fun to see my couples relaxed and having the best time during this part of the day!
Double the Reactions from Your Groom!
Worried that doing a first look on your wedding day will take away from that altar moment? Don’t be! Your groom’s reaction during a first look is just as powerful (and sometimes even more so). In a private setting, he can truly feel the moment, react genuinely, and share how incredible you look without the pressure of the ceremony. The best part? You still get those sweet emotions when you walk down the aisle – it’s like you get to experience it all over again!
Your Only Alone Time
First looks offer something extra special – a chance to be together, just the two of you. With all the hustle and bustle of the wedding day, this might be your only alone time! It’s such an intimate moment where you can laugh, cry, and take it all in together. And let’s be honest, those emotions will set the perfect tone for your romantic portraits afterward!
Goodbye, Wedding Day Nerves!
Feeling a bit nervous about the big day? A first look can help with that! So many grooms (and brides) feel a sense of calm and relaxation after seeing each other before the ceremony. You get to spend time together, soak in the excitement, and then head into the ceremony feeling more at ease and ready to enjoy every second.
More Time with Your Guests
Want to make the most of your time with friends and family? A first look lets you do just that! Since most of your portraits will be done before the ceremony, you can spend your cocktail hour mingling and celebrating with your guests instead of posing for photos. With how fast your wedding day flies by, this extra time is priceless for connecting with everyone who came to celebrate with you!
Make the Most of Daylight
Planning a winter wedding? With early sunsets, a first look might be the only way to capture those beautiful outdoor, natural light portraits. I’m a photographer who loves natural light, and if you’re getting married between November and March, a first look will ensure we have plenty of time for those dreamy, sunlit shots you’ll love forever.
At the end of the day, whether you decide to do a first look or not, it’s all about creating a day that feels perfect for you two. But if you’re looking for more time, more connection, and less stress, a first look might just be the perfect fit!
Comments