What’s a first look?

A first look refers to a private moment, before your wedding ceremony, where you see each other for the first time. It is a moment reserved just for you two (and me lol so I can capture all the reactions) and during this time, you can read your own vows to each other, hug it out and soak in the fact you’re going to put a ring on it that very day.

Why have a first look?

I tell all my couples this, but your wedding day is ALL ABOUT YOU TWO. It’s not about what your aunt Deborah or Google says. You don’t have to see each other for the first time down the aisle if you don’t want to rush that moment. Screw traditions and allow yourselves to actually BE WITH EACH OTHER on the day that is about you two.

It can be hard to be fully present when 200 pairs of eyes are on you the moment you walk down the aisle. You’ll find that everything happens really quickly too e.g you get 10 seconds to compliment your beautiful bride, who woke up at 6am to get ready, before the officiant gets everyone to take a seat.

Having a first look lets you breathe. Say a little prayer or exchange meaningful gifts. Apart from this short moment, you won’t really get another private time together on your wedding day.

First looks are practical.

For couples who choose to do a first look, it means you’re able to take any bridal portraits and group photos with family before the ceremony. This saves time in your packed wedding schedule as it means you don’t have to re-gather during cocktail hour and you can hang out with your guests.

Plus, it means we can schedule two couple portrait sessions for you in two different locations. We can do one mini photoshoot after your first look at your hotel, and a second mini photoshoot during golden hour at your wedding reception. From a practical point of view, this also means that if things overrun (as they always do) we can cut short your golden hour photos as we already have some couple photos from earlier on in the day.

First look alternatives?

Your first look can be with anyone special in your life. If you have 5 hours to spare, boom! have a first look with every freakin person coming to your wedding. You can consider having a first look with your dad (guaranteed tears by the way), grandparents, bridesmaids, and even your pet dog.

If you have any questions about planning your wedding with a first look, give me a nudge!

Heather x

First Look on a Wedding Day | Wedding photography tips and planning advice for non-traditional brides | Modern Wedding Photographer in London | Natural wedding photography Surrey UK