4 Reasons Why Wedding Photographers Love When Brides Do First Looks

First Looks have definitely become more and more popular over the years, and as a wedding photographer, I know that my colleagues and I really love being able to capture these special moments. There are so many reasons, both logistically and artistically, why your wedding photographer loves when you do a First Look at your wedding (even though it’s awesome if you choose to do it the traditional way and wait till the altar, too!).

What is a First LooK at a Wedding?

A First Look is when the bride and groom meet before the ceremony, in a private moment, where the groom gets to turn around and see his bride for the first time - while the photographer and videographer capture it, of course. They get a few minutes to share in the overwhelming emotions of seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day together, without having to jump right into the ceremony.

After the First Look, I usually do portraits of the Bride and Groom, then portraits of the bridal party and immediate families.

Here are 4 reasons why photographers love a First Look:

Lessening Nerves

The moments leading up to the ceremony are often filled with anticipation and nerves. A First Look allows the couple to share an intimate moment together, away from the eyes of guests. Seeing each other before the ceremony gives you a chance to ease those nerves, see your best friend and soulmate before the biggest moment of your lives, and have some fun together with the portraits. It takes some of the nervousness away.

Your walk Down the Aisle Is Still Special

Even with a First Look, your walk down the aisle is still a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and grooms are never less excited to see their brides after a first look.

Extended Photography Time

One of the main advantages of a First Look is the extended time available for photography. After the initial reveal, we have the chance to capture bride and groom portraits while the emotions are still fresh. It also allows for even more time to take bridal party and family portraits, especially for larger bridal parties or families.

When cocktail hour comes along, most people are ready to enjoy the party. With a First Look, we can get the most important portraits out of the way earlier in the day, and leave the cocktail hour for extended family portraits and candids.

Maximizing Daylight

In the fall, winter, and early spring, a first look can be invaluable for utilizing natural light. By scheduling the first look earlier in the day, we ensure that the majority of the portrait session is bathed in the golden hour light .

As a wedding photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing these tender moments that make a wedding day even more special. If you're seeking an opportunity to share an intimate, emotion-filled moment with your partner before the ceremony and want to maximize the photographic possibilities, a first look could be the perfect choice for your wedding day.