4 Reasons to do a First Look

Bride GuideWedding

Feb 28

SHOULD I DO A FIRST LOOK?

Should you do a first look?

Should you do a first look on your wedding day? And why/why not? This is such a big topic when planning a wedding, and as a wedding photographer, I hear couples go back and forth on this all the time. ⁠⁠ I never want to push couples one way or the other because this is such a personal decision, however, I CAN give them all of the pros and cons so that they can make a more informed decision.⁠

First of all, what is a first look? First looks are a special intimate moment set up for the bride and groom to see each other before the ceremony. Typically, your wedding photographer chooses a location (on-site) away from family and friends to give the couple privacy and to make that moment special just for them. Of course, this goes against the age-old tradition of the groom not being allowed to see the bride before she walks down the aisle. But times are changing! And the first look is now just as common, if not more common, than not seeing each other before the ceremony. As a wedding photographer, I fully support the idea and I’ve gone ahead and put together 4 reasons to do a first look.

4 Reasons to do a First Look

1. More time for photos

This right here is huge! I love when couples choose to do a first look because we can take care of the majority of the family and bridal party photos before the wedding ceremony begins, leaving more time for romantic couples’ portraits after the ceremony. I may be biased as a wedding photographer, but who wouldn’t want that?!

2. More intimate and it eases the nerves

For most couples, the idea of having all eyes on them is overwhelming. Insert the first look! It is so nice to share that intimate moment together, just the two of you, before you say your vows in front of everyone you knew. I can’t tell you how many couples say they are so happy they took the time to have a quiet intimate moment together before the ceremony and do a first look. It is a sacred moment that will never be forgotten and it helps ease many couples’ nerves before the ceremony.

3. Daylight/Best Lighting

Unfortunately, the lighting is not always ideal at a wedding ceremony space; sometimes the light is harsh, uneven, or sometimes it’s even too dark (after daylight savings). First looks allow the wedding photographer to place the bride and groom in the most ideal light/location so that they can capture the best possible photos of that special moment. This is especially important for couples' whose wedding day falls right after daylight savings.

**For couples getting married after daylight savings (in November/December), a first look is almost necessary. Please do NOT forget how early the sun sets when you are choosing your ceremony time. Discuss with your fiance whether you are open to a first look or not, and work with your planner to adjust the timeline accordingly!

4. More flexibility during Cocktail Hour

Since you’ve taken most of your photos before the ceremony, this means you have options during your cocktail hour! For the bride and grooms that love to party, need I say more? Some couples opt to use this time to mingle with their guests during the cocktail hour, tuck away and have a glass of champagne just the two of them (cheers!), or take extra bride and groom portraits. It’s up to you! The best part though, is with photos out of the way, you’re able to be more present and in the moment after your ceremony finishes.

There you have it! 4 reasons to do a first look! Hopefully this will help you to decide whether a first look is right for you on your wedding day! If you have any questions, as always, feel free to comment below!