Why You Should Consider a First Look

Explore the benefits of sharing an intimate moment before the ceremony

As wedding rituals continue to evolve, a practice that’s increased in popularity is the first look. The first look provides couples with an opportunity to share an intimate moment before the blur and bliss of the ceremony and reception. First looks provide many benefits, several of which are detailed below.

Do note that if you’re superstitious, a first look may not be fitting for you, as some believe seeing one another before the ceremony is bad luck.

A first look typically occurs an hour or two hours before the ceremony. The couple gets ready in their wedding attire and then meets at an agreed-upon, secluded place. First looks should only include the couple, a photographer and videographer.

This works best if one partner is turned away while the other taps them to turn around so the photographer can capture the candid reactions.

Share a Special Moment

One of the best benefits of a first look is getting alone time together. While your wedding day is all about the two of you, alone time is rare on this special day due to taking photos and spending time with guests. A first look gives you an uninterrupted moment together to soak in the beauty of the day and take in the commitment you’re about to make. Many couples also utilize this time to read each other letters or give gifts.

Save Time

Couples look forward to their wedding day as a time to gather all their friends and family. To maximize time with guests, many couples opt to do a first look because once you’ve seen one another, you can continue with the rest of your portraits and wedding party photos. By taking pictures beforehand, you can attend cocktail hour or begin the reception sooner, spending optimal time with guests.

Ease Your Nerves 

Wedding days are full of jitters, whether it’s nervousness or excitement. Having time to connect with one another to settle any nerves and talk through them together can be a needed escape. Also, many couples feel they are able to react in a genuine way to seeing one another without the pressure of others’ expectations. With only you and your soon-to-be spouse in the room, you don’t have to worry about anyone else.

Capture the Moment

Without anyone else around, your photographer can capture your emotions and reactions without obstructions. Your emotions will be captured in one frame. While walking down the aisle is a beautiful moment, the two of you won’t be in the photo together. A first look allows two different meaningful moments to be captured and preserved.

More Daylight

If you’re having a wedding later in the day or at night, doing a first look ensures you’ll have plenty of daylight to take photos together. You won’t have to rush to catch the last of the sun’s rays or have your photographer set up additional lighting.

Feature photo courtesy of Lauren Newman Photography