One question I always get from my couples who are just starting to plan their wedding is...
"Should we do a First Look?"
The answer is an enthusiastic... YES!
Let’s get into it.
1. You'll Get Better Reaction Photos
I get it—you want that dramatic moment when your partner sees you for the first time walking down the aisle. But here’s the catch: as a photographer, I have no control over ceremony lighting or location. And more often than not, ceremony sites have harsh sun or weird shadows. Trust me, trying to capture a quality photo of someone squinting into the sun or with a tree shadow across their face? Not ideal.
The best way to capture your partner’s tears of joy, giddy giggles, and sheer disbelief is in soft, consistent lighting chosen specifically for your First Look by me! (Cue dramatic curtsey.)
2. It's Perfectly Private
Picture this: you see your partner for the first time, emotions running high. You get close enough to speak, touch, kiss, or hug... then—boom—your ceremony starts, and everyone’s staring at you. No time to savor that moment.
Now, rewind: In a First Look, it’s just the two of you, privately sharing that electrifying embrace. You whisper, giggle, and relax into each other. It’s the perfect, intimate moment to connect before the whirlwind of the day.
*Sassy shrug* Your choice. But if you or your fiancé value those private moments, a First Look is a must. Pro tip: many of my couples also use this time to share vows. It’s the perfect opportunity.
3. You'll Spend More Time with Your Guests
If you skip the First Look, all your family and wedding party photos will happen during your cocktail hour. No time to relax and enjoy your guests—it’s all business.
I hear so many couples say they want to celebrate with their loved ones, but without a First Look, that becomes much harder. Instead of mingling, you’re stuck taking photos. And depending on the size of your wedding party, we might even lose time for those precious sunset portraits. My literal nightmare.
4. The Tradition Has Some... Well... Not-So-Romantic Origins
Ready for a little history lesson? The tradition of not seeing your partner before the wedding dates back to pre-18th century, when weddings were often arranged to boost family wealth and status. Brides and grooms didn’t meet beforehand, and fathers worried that if the groom saw the bride before the ceremony and didn’t find her desirable, he’d call off the wedding—leading to embarrassment for the family.
Romantic, right?
5. You'll Get Another Portrait Session
Imagine a whole extra tab in your gallery titled ‘First Look’ with intimate, precious moments that wouldn’t have happened otherwise. Plus, you get more time with me—your favorite photographer!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, your wedding day is about the two of you. So, ask yourself: do you want to share that raw, intimate moment with just your partner, or do you want to save it for the crowd? A First Look lets you focus on each other before the chaos begins. Trust me, it’s a moment you’ll never forget.
xoxo,
Jen
