The Benefits of Doing a First Look on Your Wedding Day

As a wedding photographer, I am often asked whether or not my couples should do a first look on their wedding day. Unless there is a tradition that’s important to you that dictates otherwise, my answer is usually YES!

There are many reasons that I recommend doing a first look. The first is that it takes the pressure off. It can be daunting when all of your guests are watching for your reaction as your partner walks down the aisle! When the first look happens just between the two of you, you can react naturally without any pressure, and create a lifelong memory that’s just between you (and me and my camera hehe).

Another benefit of doing a first look is that you get to spend more time with your partner. Since you don’t have to wait until the ceremony to see them, you get more time together on your special day. You can also spend more time with your guests! If you do a first look, you can get the majority of your photos done before the ceremony so that you can enjoy cocktail hour with your guests instead of needing that time for photos.

And obviously the best part of doing a first look is the photographs you’ll get from it. They are always among my favourite photos from the day - so romantic and intimate. So if you’re wondering whether or not to do a first look, take it from a wedding photographer: DO IT!