Top 7 of the sweetest Wedding first looks

If you’re thinking about having a first look for your wedding or not, this may be your sign. I’m not saying it’s the right move for everyone, but if you’re leaning that way, this may or may push you over the edge. So it’s up to you if you want to be swayed or not. If you do, scroll down to the sweetest gallery of photos + feel free to read my blog post above about whether or not you should have a first look!

First looks are a great way to have an intimate moment with your partner alone before the chaos starts, without all the anxiety of that intimate moment in front of all of your guests. Many photographers will push you to do a first look due to having more picture time on your day and making the most of your photography coverage, but I don’t ever pressure my couples into something that doesn’t feel true to them. If you’ve always pictured that moment down the aisle, then you should have your moment.

Below are some frequently asked questions about having your first look, followed by some adorable inspiration for your own first look.

What to do during your wedding or elopement first look

During your first look, you can choose to just take in the moments together, go look at the grand reveal of your reception together(if it’s ready) or even decide to read some vows. No matter what you choose, it’s meant to be intentional time for the two of you, geared towards making you feel at ease on your day, before going into your ceremony.

How long does your wedding first look take?

This really depends on how long you want it to take. This is up to you. Generally, I’d say as a photographer, most first looks happen within 5 minutes from start to finish of taking in the moments, and then most couples are eager to jump into photos. Though, for couples that choose to say their vows during this time, it could last up to 15 minutes. Then, usually after this, I’d document you and your bridal party, if you have one. If you don’t have a bridal party, I’d just do more portraits of the two of you! These are usually a mix of documentary candids and unique editorial posed shots.

Do you have to do a first look if you’re eloping?

Gosh. I hate that the wedding industry has to make you feel like you have to ask these things. But the answer to this is always no. If your question starts off with, “do I have to” (insert blank) regarding your wedding, the answer is no. This is your day and I will support and encourage you to make it feel like you. For couples that don’t want that big reveal and “first look” moment, many couples choose to get ready together in an intimate way. This still feels exciting to show one another your outfits you’ve chosen, and is a sweet way of hyping up the day in your own special way.

Are there any alternatives to a first look?

Yes! For couples that don’t want to see each other before their ceremony, but still want the calming factory of their presence, I recommend a first touch! A first touch can be on the other side of a door way. You can both read each other letters or even just talk to one another about how you’re feeling.

Megan and Crissy

Lainey and Jay

Garrison and Ted

Brittany and Steve-

Brittany and Steve had the sweetest first look with their daughter. She got to do her own private first look with her dad, before her mom came out. Then they had some intimate moments as a family.

Brittany and Ryan-

Brittany and Ryan’s first look was one for the books. It was definitely an emotional one and he had everyone crying.

Zeb and Rachel-

Zeb and Rachel got married at this intimate luxury dining venue called Herb Lyceum. The gardens were flourishing, the vibes were high and everyone was eager to see these two get married.

Alex and Colin

Alex and Colin had a really beautiful elopement. First look at their sunrise elopement in the Colorado Mountains. After their first look, Alex was able to disperse her mother’s ashes in the place where they got married, so she was there with them. It was probably one of the most emotional moments i’ve ever witnessed during an elopement.