A “first look” is the moment the bride and groom get to see each other for the first time before the wedding ceremony begins.

Many couples ask me why I recommend a first look, so here are a few of my favorite reasons!

REASON ONE: THE MOMENT YOU LOOK YOUR BEST

Let’s be real for a minute. You’ve just finished with the hair and makeup artists. It’s before the ceremony, the photos, and the party. You look absolutely stunning - possibly the most gorgeous you’ve ever looked in your whole life.

This is your moment to shine bright - and what better moment for your groom to see you than this one, at your very best? He’ll never forget it. You’ll never forget it. First look photos capture bride and groom together looking like perfection!

REASON TWO: IT’S JUST YOU TWO

I can tell you from years of firsthand experience that the moment groom sees bride for the first time is once in a lifetime. Seriously, friends, It’s nothing short of pure magic. You’ve never seen this level of emotion and connection, It’s enough to get me tearing up every time.

And let me tell you something else—I truly believe this moment is best shared privately, away from the pressure of tons of friends and family. It’s the only time the bride and groom really get to share together, alone, for the entire day. Having the first look be private is more relaxing for bridge and groom, and makes for beautiful images!

REASON THREE: A SECOND TO BREATHE

When the bride walks down the aisle, all eyes are on her. She’s in the spotlight, every movement being watched with anticipation by friends and family. It’s a spectacular and grand moment, but it’s also a public one.

Making the first look private allows the bride and groom to be natural together, to relax, to express their feelings for eachother without worrying about anyone else around. After having a first look, I’ve also observed that couples are far more relaxed during the ceremony. This is HUGE, friends!

REASON FOUR: INCREDIBLE EMOTION, CAPTURED

As a photographer, of course my favorite outcome of a First Look is the imagery! The photographs of bride and groom together for the first time on their wedding day are incredibly emotional and lovely. These images capture such intense excitement and love between the couple. It’s amazing.

For many of my clients, these very special photos end up becoming the most treasured shots of the entire wedding. I’ve had numerous couples say that their most beloved favorite images are from the first look. I just can’t recommend it enough—schedule a first look in your wedding timeline!

REASON FIVE: WEDDING PARTY OR FAMILY PHOTOS BEFORE THE CEREMONY

You can do wedding party and family photographs right after the first look. This way you will get a chance to spend more time with your guests during the cocktail hour.