First Looks are often the most memorable moments in your wedding day, but not everyone thinks they are important enough to have one. However, there are several reasons why you should include this moment before your ceremony. Whether you’re planning to have a First Look or not, reading this article will help you understand why it’s something that every couple should at least consider on their wedding day.

What is a first look?

A first look is a moment that is cherished by many couples who choose to elope and marry in intimate settings. It's the special moment when the bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day, before the ceremony begins. The couple will usually have their photographers set up for a private photo session with just the two of them right before they walk down the aisle. The groom usually sees his bride in her gown, and they often have time alone together to embrace and kiss. This can be a beautiful time of reflection and anticipation; it's also a time when they can share their excitement with each other and have a moment of privacy to really feel all of the emotions of their wedding day together.

Often, all of your guests wait in a reception hall or nearby garden while you enjoy some privacy with your partner. In fact, First Looks are becoming increasingly popular across many areas of photography these days.

Why have a first look?

1. Take the pressure off

It is not uncommon to hear people say that their wedding day was the most stressful day of their life. As we get closer and closer to our wedding, the anticipation builds until it feels like there's a weight on our chest. The first look is meant to be a moment where couples have a few moments together in an intimate setting before going into the wedding ceremony. This moment provides them with an opportunity to calm their nerves and make sure they're ready for what's next. It also allows them to share one last special moment together without any distractions before they're introduced as Mr. and Mrs.

2. It won’t ruin the moment you walk down the aisle

When you’ve been planning your wedding day and dreaming of it as a child, you want to make it perfect. The moment when the bride sees her groom before they exchange vows is one of the most intimate moments of the day. You will remember that look on his face, that loving smile and that feeling of butterflies in your stomach forever. The feelings don’t go away just because you had a first look and aren’t seeing each other for the first time - they are still there and deserve to be celebrated! Walking down the aisle is a completely different kind of excitement - you’re getting married, this is the moment you have been waiting months or years for. As a photographer, I am often asked if I would recommend having a first look. My answer is always YES! And I am not alone in this opinion.

3. You’ll get more time for intimate couple portraits

Many couples today choose to have a First Look to give themselves and their family the opportunity to see them before their big ceremony or party starts. First looks aren’t only for the couple. There is a growing popularity for first looks with parents, grandparents, and bridal parties. Each has their own special meaning and gives you time to celebrate privately with the people who mean the most to you before the craziness of the ceremony and reception begins. With so much going on during the reception and ceremony, sometimes we forget what really mattered about that day-the love! Plus, with everyone taking pictures from different angles throughout the whole process (before getting dressed up at all!), what else could be more intimate than seeing your soon-to-be husband/wife for the first time? It's an experience you'll never forget!

How to make the most of your first look

1. Give yourselves enough time

The first look is a special moment between two people in love. It's a chance to take time out of the whirlwind of a wedding day and enjoy the company of your spouse. To make the most of this intimate moment, plan enough time beforehand so that you can spend quality time with your loved one. When you elope, or have an intimate ceremony, there isn't much time before the ceremony begins-you should set aside around 15 to 20 minutes before the ceremony starts. If a wedding ceremony is taking place in the evening (or you know.. 3pm in a Canadian winter), first-look photos are typically done in the early afternoon, when the sunlight is at its best.

2. Consider logistics

The time and logistics of the first look can vary by couple. Couples should consider how far the bride will have to travel to reach the groom. You don't want the bride walking past guests arriving, or walking far in muddy/soft grass in her heels! 

3. Choose the right location

While some couples prefer doing their first look outdoors in nature, indoors is also a beautiful option (and important as an inclement weather backup). Couples should consider how their guests will feel about not being part of your first look experience; if you are going to do it, you should choose a special spot that your guests won’t be able to interrupt. If you're planning on including your bridesmaids and groomsmen in your first look photos, think about when and where you might want to do a group photo after. 

Tips for getting the best photos

1. Have 2 professional wedding photographers present to capture both you and your partner's reactions.

2. Leave your bridal party behind, or have a separate first look with them.

3. Write letters to read each other before the reveal.

4. Give your wedding gifts during the first look.

5. Get lost in the moment - hug, kiss, and whisper sweet nothings in each others ear.

6. Do a “first look prank”.