WHAT IS A FIRST LOOK?

Traditionally, the first time a couple sees each other on their wedding day is during the ceremony when one partner walks down the aisle. However, a first look involves arranging a private meeting between partners before the ceremony. This emotional moment allows you to see each other for the first time in your wedding attire, capturing heartfelt emotions in an intimate setting.

WHY DO SOME COUPLES DO A FIRST LOOK?

ADD INTIMACY. Having a first look provides an opportunity for you and your partner to share an intimate and private moment before being surrounded by family and friends. It allows you to express your emotions, exchange heartfelt words, and simply relish in the excitement of the day together.

EASE NERVES. Wedding day jitters are natural, but a first look can help ease those nerves. Seeing the love and excitement in each other’s eyes before taking that walk down the aisle can provide a sense of calmness and reassurance for both of you.

MAXIMIZES YOUR TIMELINE. In addition to calming nerves and creating a moment away from the hustle of your wedding day, first looks help optimize your timeline. By arranging a private meeting before the ceremony, you can complete most of your formal photographs, including couple portraits, family photos, and bridal party shots, before your ceremony. That way, you can enjoy the rest of your evening celebrating with loved ones.

MORE TIME FOR PICTURES. One of the primary advantages of a first look is the additional time it provides for capturing stunning photographs. This additional time allows for relaxed and unhurried photography moments, resulting in a diverse and comprehensive collection of pictures that truly capture the essence and beauty of the day. A first look allows you to maximize your wedding photos, ensuring that no special moment goes undocumented, and allows your photographer to center their focus around artful details while creating lasting memories of your love and joy.

HOW DOES HAVING A FIRST LOOK AFFECT OUR PHOTOS?

First looks play a role in the outcome of your photographs, and probably more than you realize. In addition to the reasons listed previously, allowing your photographer more time to observe, create, and romanticize your day results in more artfully created and candid photographs.

Is it actually better for photos? If you are working with a shorter timeline, then yes. If you still want to have more time for photos without having a first look, consider adding more hours of photography coverage to your wedding package, or booking a package with full event coverage. You can always reach out to your photographer or wedding planner to talk things through, which is always recommended!

CAN WE STILL TAKE COUPLES PORTRAITS DURING GOLDEN HOUR IF WE DO A FIRST LOOK?

Yes! Often times when a couple chooses to do a first look, the photographer will photograph all formal portraits before the ceremony to allow you to spend the rest of your evening relaxing and enjoying moments with your guests. However, it’s not uncommon for couples to want to take advantage of that beautiful golden sunlight. In this case, your planner or photographer can schedule a little extra time in your timeline about 45 minutes before sunset to sneak in some additional photos as newlyweds.

If you choose to do a first look but still want photos during golden hour, we usually suggest having both couples portraits before the ceremony and after during golden hour. On the day of, feelings change and sometimes after the ceremony you are simply ready to enjoy cocktail hour with your loved ones.

WHAT DO WE NEED TO KNOW IF WE AREN’T PLANNING ON DOING A FIRST LOOK?

If you don’t plan on having a first look, you will need to make sure your ceremony time ends at least 2 hours before sunset to allow time for your formal portraits. You can find the sunset time for your wedding day easily by Googling “sunset time on month, date, year in city, state.” As photographers, we are limited to the amount of light we have in a day to photograph to ensure the best lighting for your most cherished photos. You want to ensure important moments such as details, formal photos, and your ceremony are all had before the sun sets.

HOW DO WE KNOW IF A FIRST LOOK IS RIGHT FOR US AS A COUPLE?

Determining whether a first look is right for you and your partner depends on various factors, and it can be helpful to consider both the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Some things to consider are:

EMOTIONAL PREFERENCE. If the idea of seeing each other before the ceremony resonates with you and enhances the emotional experience for you and your partner, a first look may be suitable.

TRADITIONAL VALUES. For some couples, the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony holds great importance. If upholding this tradition is significant to you, a first look may not be the right choice.

TIMELINE AND LOGISTICS. In some cases, your photographer might recommend having a first look for the efficiency of your timeline. Additionally, A first look can streamline the timeline of your wedding day, allowing you to schedule other activities and events more efficiently. It can also give you a chance to freshen up before the ceremony. lf a well-managed timeline is crucial to you, a first look may be worth considering. Remember to reach out to your wedding planner or photographer before finalizing your ceremony time.

PHOTOGRAPHY OPPORTUNITIES. If having ample time for photography is a priority, a first look can be beneficial.

Ultimately, the decision should align with your personal desires and priorities as a couple. Take the time to discuss your preferences to determine if a first look is the right choice for you and your partner.

Still in search of a wedding photographer?

Still in search of a wedding photographer? I’m Brenna, lead photographer and owner of Yucca Photo. Though based in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, we photograph couples all over the world. Yucca Photo specializes in documentary wedding photography, preserving moments on both digital and film. You can find more information about us through our website at yuccaphoto.com, or by following us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube.