One of the first topics I discuss with my couples when we start planning out their wedding day timeline is if they plan to do a first look. I for one am obsessed with the idea and the timeline of a first look. However, not everyone is aware of how awesome they are because they get caught up in how “non-traditional” they are and they write off the idea. You have the vision of your groom seeing you walk down the aisle for the first time surprised and overcome with joy, I get it, but wouldn’t it be amazing to have your cake and eat it too? Nothing will take away that moment of walking down the aisle as your friends and family witness you stepping forward to make your promises to each other, not even a first look.

After photographing close to 200 weddings I’ve come to one conclusion, some brides love tradition and others are open to getting totally creative with new traditions. I respect both sides and always will. However, I feel that it is also important to educate you to make a decision that the both of you feel 100% about. I have had couples who were adamant that a first look was not an option they didn’t want one until they got through the day and then looked back and said I wish we had done a first look. I have yet to have a couple who have regretted doing the first look (please don’t be my first!). There is an assumption that the walk down the aisle will not be as emotional if a first look is done but that isn’t the case. The first look down the aisle from what I have witnessed is more excitement less nerves which makes for flattering photographs.

Here are my top 6 reasons why you should consider a first look:

1. It puts the couple at ease and gives them a few moments to just let the day sink in before being in front of a large group.
2. Everyone’s hair makeup is fresh (yay no time wasted touching up makeup or hair)
3. It allows the bridal party time to loosen up, get used to the camera so that when they are up at the front they look more relaxed and less awkward.
4. The couple gets to enjoy the moments a little longer rather than not getting to say much and jumping right into the vows.
5. Photographer’s get full control of surroundings without the distraction of guests jumping in the way with their cameras/phones
6. You end up with more photos of the first time the groom saw you… sure you can always attempt to recreate the idea afterwards but it won’t have the same emotional feeling

Now not every couple chooses to do the bridal party portraits immediately after a first look and that is totally up to you. I have had couples do an intimate first look then a first look with their bridal party followed by all their portraits before the ceremony. I have also done a first look with just the bride and groom and all the remainder of photographs after the ceremony. Whichever you decide best fits your values is what you should plan for.

Some of my favourite first look moments: