What is a “First Look” That We Keep Hearing About?

The first look is a highly popular addition to many weddings day timelines. The first look or sneak peek is the moment when the bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day. No guests, no distractions. It is a very special moment that the bride and groom share that the photographers capture with little to no interruptions.

Unlike the traditional reveal of the bride walking down the aisle as being the time when the couple sees each, the first look is a more intimate moment shared between just the bride and groom. You can actually look into each other’s eyes, which only makes the moment more genuine. The bride isn’t worried about not tripping down the aisle, the groom isn’t trying to hold it together in front of all their guest, it is a moment when the two of you can really take in and savor the moment of seeing each other just before you say your ‘I do’s’.

The first look captures the initial reaction of the bride and groom and allows the two to act naturally when seeing each other for the first time. You can cry, laugh, hug, kiss and just simply be in the moment without having all your guests around. This not only yields beautiful one of a kind images but will also leave you with some spare time to capture a few more couple’s images just after this tender moment.

The sneak peek is ideal because you both will be looking your best. Your hair and makeup is still perfectly in place and gives you time to do any touch-ups before the ceremony. Including a sneak peek to your timeline also allows us the opportunity to focus on capturing the reactions of some of the guests as the bride makes her way down the aisle during the ceremony, which is often missed because the focus is usually on the bride and groom’s expression and reactions to one another. Finally, the sneak peek is one of the best ways to eliminate any of the wedding day jitters. Since you already have the emotional part of seeing each other for the first time you are more relaxed and calm walking down the aisle and saying your vows.

Also, if you choose to do a first look, we can do portraits with your bridal party and family at this time as well.  And then, you are put in an awesome position of deciding if you want to do your portraits early as well and going into the cocktail hour, or do you want to spend that whole (or part of!) cocktail hour doing just portraits of you and your beloved?

Not sure you want to do a first look?  One of you wants to do a first look and one of you does not?  Do you really need to just hear the voice of your love to calm some nerves?  Do you need to hold hands for a minute and have some time for just the two of you?  How about a “no look, first look?”  Let’s incorporate some of your story into your no look first look!

Some of our brides recently have done first looks with their fathers.  Say it with me.  Awwwww

We understand that a first look isn’t for everybody.  But, if it’s for you, it’s for us, too!  We love first looks!!!!

To see any of these couples the next time they’re featured and to continue getting tips and tricks to plan your engagement and wedding, make sure to sign up here.  To see more images, follow me on Facebook and Instagram.