The Ultimate Guide to A Wedding First Look
At the beginning of my career as a wedding photographer (nearly a decade ago, omg), first looks were just starting to become popular. Since then, it’s become such a massive phenomenon that I swear, every time I check my Tiktok, I see a new kind of first look. One thing is for sure – this trend is here to stay. It often feels like it’s the elephant in the room – to first look or not to first look? Whether you’re considering a classic couple’s first look, a moment with your wedding party, or a touching interaction with your parents, this guide will walk you through all the essentials to help you make the most of these unforgettable moments.
Table of Contents:
- What is a Wedding First Look?
- Types of First Looks
- Four Alternate First Look Ideas
- Tip for Wedding First Looks
What is a Wedding First Look?
I’m sure you’ve heard of it before, but if you haven’t, I promise it’s so literal you’re going to laugh. A first look is the moment that a couple shares on their wedding day, where they see each other for the first time. Literally, the first look! It’s a special moment that offers an opportunity for intimate, emotional exchanges before the ceremony begins.
However, the trend has definitely expanded in the last few years. First looks can between any number of people involved with your wedding. The ones I see most often are parent first looks and wedding party first looks. There’s a dramatic reveal and it’s always a touching moment. But if you’re hoping for a first look with someone else, let your planner, photographer, and videographer know and we can make it happen.
Types of Wedding First Looks
THE CLASSIC COUPLE FIRST LOOK
The classic couple’s first look is the one we usually hear the most about. It’s a private moment where the wedding couple gets to see each other for the first time before the ceremony. This typically takes place in a secluded spot, away from the eyes of guests. It’s an alternative to the traditional down-the-aisle first look.
Examples of Couple First Look Wedding Photos
Why Couples Choose a First Look
The private first look gives the couple an opportunity to see each other without performance of it all. They can express their emotions freely, getting to be with their person for a few moments separate from the hustle and bustle of the wedding. This can help ease pre-ceremony nerves and provide a quiet pause before the day becomes a whirlwind of activity. As a wedding photographer, I’m a huge fan of the first look because it frees up your time later in the day by getting formalities out of the way. You’ll get the majority of your photos out of the way while your hair, makeup, flowers, and more are still looking their best. But, whatever you decide to choose will be amazing!
Pros and Cons of Choosing a First Look
Pros:
- A Moment to Yourselves: There’s so much going on during a wedding day that many couples don’t actually get to spend too much time together, just them. Planning for a first look allows you to get that private moment of connection before too much craziness can unfold.
- Reduced Stress: Seeing each other before the ceremony can help alleviate nervousness and create a more relaxed atmosphere. Seeing your person on one of the biggest days of your life can be a lot of pressure – especially when everyone’s watching to see if one of you sheds a tear. Doing a first look can take that moment off the main-stage, making it simply a moment to reassure your partner before you say “I do”.
- Helps the Timeline: But what most people don’t know about first looks is that it’s often just as much about logistics as it is about the moment itself. For example, when you see each other before the ceremony, it allows you to move the picture and portrait sessions to before your ceremony. If you opt out of the first look, it means that your portraits with your partner, wedding party, and family all have to happen after the ceremony. Either option is a good choice – your vendors will be able to craft you a timeline that works seamlessly regardless of what you choose. But if you’re wanting to attend your cocktail hour, it might be a good idea to opt for a first look!
- Private Vows: If you aren’t the ‘baring your soul in front of an audience’ kind of person, then a first look offers a perfect time frame to exchange more personal vows in private. It’s an added personal touch, without the nerves of performance. I’ve also seen a couple share a pre-ceremony shot of their favorite liquor during their first look.
Cons:
- Less Surprise: If you’re someone who dreams of the dramatic reveal at the altar, the first look might take away from that moment. I can totally see the appeal, and if that down the aisle moment is what you’re looking for, I’ll never try to talk you out of it.
- Timing Pressure: Scheduling the first look requires careful planning to ensure it fits smoothly into the wedding day timeline. You’ll definitely want to consider how many hours of photographer and videographer coverage you have. If you opted for full-day-coverage, however, this shouldn’t be an issue. If you aren’t sure, talk to your wedding photographer and wedding videographer.
5 Things to Consider When Planning A Wedding First Look With Your Partner
1. Guest Arrival
On wedding days, guests will often start to arrive around a half hour before the ceremony is slated to begin. In some scenarios, guests may arrive up to an hour before. When planning your timeline, you’ll want to make sure that you leave yourself enough time to be hidden away before things start to get crowded. This is especially important if you’ve arranged for a shuttle to bring guests to the venue straight from a hotel. It’s likely that there’ll be multiple drop-offs and therefore guests may be dropped even earlier.
2. Location:
When you choose your venue and getting ready spaces, take some time to think about the place and space that you’ll be seeing your fiancé on your wedding day for the first time!
Do you want it to be a private area? It could be as simple as a hotel room or a certain spot in your venue like a grand staircase or ballroom. What do you want the background to look like? Depending on when your first look happens, your ceremony space could be finished so you could opt to have your first look in the traditional space. However, be prepared to be flexible and have a rain plan. Your first look location may potentially change due to lighting or weather conditions on the day of the wedding. Ask your photographer what the best spot for a first look would be. We want to make sure that both you and your partner’s faces are properly lit, so we’ll probably have suggestions for where to go.
3. Privacy
Who do you want to be there? Your first look can be totally private, just you and your boo. I’ll be a little sad but you can even ask your photo and video teams to make themselves scarce. But it doesn’t have to be. If you want to have your families or your wedding party there to witness it, that’s definitely okay. Everyone does their first look a little bit differently.
4. Special Touches
As a photographer that’s documented more than 150 weddings, I’ve seen a variety of ways that couples have personalized their first look. From exchanging vows, letters, or gifts, all the way to serenading your partner with a song you wrote on the guitar, there’s so many options to choose from.
5. What to Wear
Obviously you’ll be wearing the outfit that you’ve spent the last several hours putting together, duh. But, do you want to leave an element of your look out of the first look? Some examples might be to forego the veil or bouquet or to add sleeves or gloves before you walk down the aisle. This first look exclusion can bring back the full-aisle moment with another new reaction from your partner.
THE WEDDING PARTY FIRST LOOK
The wedding party first look is a moment when the couple reveals their complete wedding attire to their wedding party before the ceremony. I see this most often with brides. They’ll have their wedding day crew leave the getting-ready suite for a moment while they get their dress on (usually with Mom’s help!). Then with their photographer’s help, they orchestrate a dramatic reveal. Other options that I’ve seen have been a bride revealing her dress to the groomsmen.
This moment allows the wedding party to appreciate the complete look and feel of the day. It’s also a great opportunity for group photos and to create a shared sense of anticipation and celebration.
Examples of Wedding Party First Look Photos
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Wedding Party First Look
Pros:
- Group Excitement: Seeing the wedding party’s reactions can add a fun and lively element to the day.
- Photo Opportunities: The first look with the wedding party creates additional photo opportunities that capture the collective joy and enthusiasm.
- Bonding Time: It provides a special moment for the couple to connect with their wedding party before the ceremony begins.
Cons:
- Time Management: Coordinating everyone’s schedules and ensuring that everyone is ready can be challenging and requires precise planning.
THE PARENT FIRST LOOK
The parent first look is a heartfelt moment where the bride and/or groom reveal their wedding attire to their parents before the ceremony. This intimate interaction can be deeply emotional and offers a chance for parents to see their child’s wedding look up close.
This moment allows parents to share in the joy and pride of their child’s wedding day. It provides an opportunity for a personal connection and often results in touching, candid photos.
Examples of Parent First Look Wedding Photos
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Parent First Look
Pros:
- Emotional Impact: This moment can be incredibly moving and offer a chance for parents to express their love and support.
- Special Photos: Capturing the reactions of parents seeing their child in their wedding attire creates memorable and cherished photos.
Cons:
- Emotional Overload: Parents may become overwhelmed with emotion, which could impact their ability to fully enjoy the moment.
- Timing Considerations: Scheduling this moment requires careful planning to ensure it fits into the overall wedding timeline.
4 Alternative First Look Ideas
First looks with your furry friend
If your beloved pet is part of your wedding day, a first look with them can add a unique and adorable touch. I know so many of my couples have pets that they absolutely adore and are a huge part of their relationship. But, the logistics of getting your furry friend to the venue and under control can be a little bit difficult to manage. One of my favorite services to refer to couples is Anna’s Animals – a Toledo, Ohio based pet-sitter that escorts pets to and from the wedding venue.
First looks with a grandparent
A first look with grandparents can be a deeply meaningful way to involve them in your wedding day. Their reactions and interactions can be incredibly special and provide lasting memories.
First looks with your child
If you become a parent before you walk down the aisle, there’s a good chance you’ll want to involve them in the wedding. Having a special first look with your child can be a fun and personal way to share this special life moment.
The First Touch
If you want to see your partner for the first time at the altar, but still want to be able to calm your nerves before the ceremony by seeing them, a ‘first touch’ might be the way to go. Usually, this involves the couple standing on opposite sides of a corner or a door, holding hands around it. This offers a lot of the benefits of a first look, without breaking tradition.
Tips for Wedding First Looks
- Communicate Clearly: Make sure everyone involved knows the plan, including timing, location, and any special instructions to ensure smooth execution.
- Plan Ahead: Work closely with your photographer to plan the logistics of each first look, ensuring they capture the moments beautifully and efficiently.
- Stay Relaxed: Embrace the emotions of the day and enjoy each moment. The goal is to create lasting memories, so savor the experience and let the genuine reactions shine through.
Still Need A Photographer for Your Wedding and First Look Moment?
I got you! We can definitely chat all about it and make sure it’s perfectly documented – just fill out my inquiry form. For more tips and resources to help plan your wedding, explore the additional planning guides and inspiration available on the blog –
- Looking for a Wedding Dress? Explore the Best Toledo Wedding Dress Shops
- On the hunt for your last few wedding vendors? Check out my Vendor Spotlights
- Looking for wedding photography inspiration? Head over to the blog.
- Want some more ideas for your engagement session? I’ve got lots of inspiration posted to the blog.
- Unsure where you want to have your engagement session? I’ve got lots of ideas for you right here in Toledo
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