The Ultimate Guide to Wedding First Looks

So many details go into planning your dream wedding — including deciding whether or not you want to have a wedding first look. When considering this option, it’s essential to weigh out the different pros and cons to make sure it’s the right choice for you. Here’s everything you need to know about first looks:

What Is a Wedding First Look?

A first look is a photo opportunity that takes place before the ceremony. These images capture the intimate moment when a couple first lock eyes with each other on their wedding day. The first look allows every couple to have a few private moments together before tying the knot in front of friends and family.

The anticipation that both the bride and groom feel in this moment is something that is cherished forever.

The Pros:

Calm Before the Storm

If you’re interested in spending some quiet time with your significant other before all of the craziness surrounded by every wedding begins, the first look is the perfect time to do it. Your nerves will start to calm down after spending a few moments soaking in the day with your person. You’ll both likely enjoy the actual ceremony more if you spend some intimate time together beforehand.

Having some fun and letting your personalities show is always a great way to remember the big day at the Hollowbrook Country Club

“Personally, I loved having a first look at my own wedding. It gave us a moment before the day officially started to connect with one another and take a deep breath.”
– Ashley Sawtelle via Brides

The Genuine Reaction

Are you hoping for a reaction? A wedding first look can create an opportunity for a natural romantic reaction between you and your significant other. We find that first looks generate a genuine reaction free from all the pressure of guests being around when you walk down the aisle. It is also a great way to get rid of some of the nervous energy you might be feeling the morning of your wedding day.

You’ll Have More Time for Amazing Photos

Do you want to worry about taking photos immediately after your ceremony or during your reception? If not, incorporating a first look session allows you to get the photo-taking out of the way. Traditionally we will incorporate an hour photo session into your first look to give you and your partner a moment to enjoy the goosebumps and spend some time together capturing some whimsical images

Bride and groom enjoying so playful time alone during there romantic couple session

Element of Surprise

Not only is the element of surprise a fun way to start your big day, but it also makes for a great photo op. We encourage all of our brides to make this special moment their own! The Knot News did a story on a woman who coordinated a fake first look with her photographer. Her hubby-to-be thought he was showing up for a romantic first look, but when he turned around, he found his fiancée standing there in an oversized cat t-shirt and baggy sweatpants. The moment was absolutely hysterical and made for some memorable photos!

Best Man getting ready to give this groom the surprise of his life

Who Got The Props

If you’re looking to do a first look that looks like it came out of a fairytale, you could gather balloons like one of our brides chose to do. She hid behind the balloons until it was time for her to reveal her gorgeous wedding day look. Take the time to think about how you can make your first look tailored to your personality and relationship.

Incorporating props makes for really unique photos on your wedding day at the Falkirk Estates

You’ll Have More Time To Relax and Enjoy the Day

We will go over an ideal timeline before the wedding to make sure we have ample time for getting ready and to take first look pictures. First look photos give you the opportunity to take all your bridal party and family pictures before the ceremony, which gives more time to spend with your guests during cocktail hour and reception. You’ll also enjoy the photoshoot before the nuptials because you won’t feel peeled away from the festivities during your big day. Instead, a first look session allows you and your families to soak up the anticipation and excitement for the exchange of vows just on the horizon.

Taking family portraits and group shots before the ceremony at the exquisite Le Chateau in South Salem

The Cons

Your Day Will Start Earlier

Your wedding day will be stunning, but it will also be exhausting. Although it goes by fast, If you’re considering a first look, you should know that you will have to wake up earlier for preparation. We traditionally ask for four hours before the ceremony to capture all of the getting ready pictures along with your first look, romantic couples session, bridal party, and family pictures.

Your Wedding Dress May Get Dirty

You always run the risk of getting the bottom of your dress dirty if you choose to go outdoors to take photos before you walk down the aisle. While this is not common, it’s an important factor to consider when deciding whether or not you’d like to have a first look.

First look at the Beautiful Blue Hill at Stone Barns

If you’re still unsure if a first look is the best fit for you, contact us for more information about the large role that photography plays on wedding days.