Today, we’re diving into one of the hottest trends in wedding photography: the First Look. If you’re planning your big day and wondering whether to include this moment, I’ve got all the info you need to make an informed decision! A first look can add a unique, personal touch to your wedding day, creating unforgettable memories and beautiful photos that you’ll cherish forever. I’ve seen firsthand how amazing these moments can be, and I’m here to share why you should consider a first look for your wedding!

What is a First Look?

First things first—what exactly is a First Look? It’s a private moment where the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony. Away from the crowd and the chaos, it’s just the two of you (and me, capturing every emotion). This can be an incredibly special and intimate memory for your wedding day.

Top Reasons to Have a First Look

1. Calming Those Nerves

Weddings are wonderful, but they can also be a bit nerve-wracking. Seeing your partner before the ceremony can really help calm those pre-wedding jitters! Many couples find that a First Look eases their anxiety, allowing them to enjoy the rest of the day more fully.

2. More Time for Photos

Let’s face it—your wedding day will fly by! A First Look gives you the chance to knock out a bunch of photos before the ceremony even starts. This means you can spend more time with your guests during the cocktail hour and reception, rather than being whisked away for a photo session.

3. An Intimate Moment Together

The First Look is a rare chance for just the two of you to share a quiet, intimate moment. Weddings can be hectic, and this private time can be incredibly meaningful. It’s a wonderful opportunity to express your feelings and soak in the moment without an audience. It gives you a private moment to just simply be with each other before the craziness of the day begins.

4. Genuine Reactions

If you’re worried that a First Look might take away from the emotional impact of seeing each other at the altar, don’t be! In my experience, the emotions during a First Look are just as powerful, if not more so, because you’re in a relaxed and private setting. Plus, you’ll still get that magical moment walking down the aisle, trust me!

5. Flexibility with Your Timeline

A First Look can make your wedding day timeline more flexible. By getting some of the formal photos out of the way early, you can have a smoother flow from ceremony to reception. This often results in a more relaxed day for everyone involved!

Things to Consider

Of course, the decision to have a First Look is personal, and it’s not for everyone. Here are a few more things to keep in mind:

• Tradition: If you’re a stickler for tradition, you might prefer the classic “no seeing each other before the ceremony” rule. And that’s totally okay!
• Emotion: Some couples prefer the heightened emotion of seeing each other for the first time at the altar in front of their loved ones.
• Timing: Make sure to discuss the timeline with your photographer to ensure you have enough time to fit in a First Look without feeling rushed.

Ultimately, whether or not to have a First Look is entirely up to you. It’s your day, and it should reflect what feels right for you as a couple! As a photographer, I’m here to support your vision and capture all the beautiful moments, first look or not. Your wedding day is one of the most significant days of your life, and my goal is to make it as smooth, enjoyable, and memorable as possible. So, if you’re thinking about including a first look in your wedding day, let’s chat and plan out the perfect timeline together! I can’t wait to be a part of your special day and help you create beautiful, lasting memories! Hopefully, this helps you if you’re wondering why you should consider a first look for your special day!

To see more of my work, click here. To book a session with me, click here!

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Kind Words

“As someone who hates most pictures of myself, I was dragging my feet when it came to wedding/engagement photos. Brit made the process easy, stress-free, and fun (my fiance even walked away from our engagement shoot saying that it felt like a date). She has an incredible eye for color, detail, and angles, but most importantly: her gorgeous photos capture us so well, they don’t feel posed at all. 10/10 would recommend without hesitation.” -Jen