What exactly is a “First Look?” These days, any wedding photographer will tell you it’s when a couple intentionally sees each other on their wedding day before the ceremony.

Some of you may be gasping at the thought of this (it’s against tradition!!) – others might consider the trend old news. But truthfully, including a First Look in your wedding day has become one of the most important decisions a couple will make. The result is usually a combination of tears and laughter… but always full of emotion.

Even though there are many advantages to having First Look, it’s not the best decision for every couple. I have heard plenty of arguments both for and against a First Look, and most of the time I am 100% FOR it. Below you’ll find seven of my favorite reasons to have a First Look!

1. Logistics.
   You want to spend as much of your wedding day together as possible. Especially for ceremonies that are later in the day, I always encourage couples to have a First Look early on. Everyone tells you your wedding day will be over before you know it, and – they’re right! If you’re apart until 5 or 6 pm, that’s a large portion of the day you could spend making sweet wedding memories.
   
2. Lighting.
   This reason has 100% to do with photography. Depending on what time of year you’re getting married, the sun will set anywhere between 4:30 and 8:30pm. Keep in mind that for ceremonies later in the day, there won’t be time for natural light photos of you and your partner if you don’t have a First Look. What does this mean? No gorgeous greenery, no fall colors, no sunshine, no golden hour. Yes, we can take separate solo portraits, family and wedding party photos during daylight, but every single Newlywed photo from your wedding day will be taken with artificial light. If that’s not the aesthetic you’re going for, definitely consider (an earlier ceremony or) having a First Look!
   
3. Privacy.
   It’s a moment you can enjoy together, alone. As the guests of honor you’ll have places to be, and a timeline to keep up with. Yes – your day will be filled with your favorite people, but there won’t be much opportunity for just the two of you together. Having a First Look guarantees a few moments of privacy on your wedding day. Some couples even choose to exchange personal vows during this time (instead of at the ceremony), which always makes for really unique and intimate photos.
   
4. Nerves.
   Let’s face it: your wedding day is kind of a big deal. There’s a lot going on – the result of months of planning and decision-making. Of course you want it to be perfect! No matter how your emotions may be running, any nerves will melt away the moment you see each other (pinky swear!!). We’ve seen it time and time again. First Looks are one of my favorite things to photograph for this reason.
   
5. More photos!
   This might seem like an easy one, but it’s worth mentioning. If you have a First Look you’ll get an extra set of portraits together that wouldn’t exist otherwise.
   
6. Stage fright.
   Remember I mentioned that these things get emotional? Imagine experiencing that moment in front of 100+ guests with all eyes on YOU. Be prepared to let those emotions run while on display – or not allow yourself to experience them fully. Even if you don’t consider yourself an outwardly emotional person, wedding days can be completely unpredictable (yep – you might cry!). If this does not sound appealing to you, I highly recommend a First Look.
   
7. Authenticity.
   Have you been dreaming about the look on your partner’s face as you walk down the aisle? Or, as they walk down the aisle toward you? Trust me: that moment will still be REAL and still be emotional. They will be just as excited to see you at that moment whether you’re apart all day or spend it together.

Bonus Reason: We Like To Party!

It’s true: With a First Look, you’ll have the option to complete ALL your formal/posed/family/group photos before the ceremony even begins. What does that mean? Once it’s officially official, you can relax, let loose, and ENJOY the party you’ve been planning for so long, alongside your loved ones. Once that ring is on your finger, not having to worry about an agenda or chasing daylight may be exactly what you need! By this point, you can rest assured that we’ve already captured countless candid moments and the formal shots you wanted. Now you can just focus on the fun stuff! Any additional Newlywed Photos (yes, we’ll definitely get some of those) are just an added bonus 🙂

Don’t believe me? See for yourself! Below are several first looks we’ve photographed, and a few ceremony first looks for comparison. Meaning: there’s a mix of couples who did see each other before the ceremony, and some couples who didn’t.

Can you tell the difference?! Let me know!

Featured couples and venues include:

Mary & William, Thalia Hall / Emily & John, Salvage One / Carly & Matt, Chevy Chase Country Club / Amanda & Rob, Rivers Restaurant / Erica & Eric, River Roast / Melissa & Anand, Room 1520 / Alex & Jason, Lacuna Events / Alissa & Mel, Mercantile Hall / Jessika & Matthew, Grant Park / Ben & Carla, Begyle Brewing / Eliza & Patrick, Chicago Athletic Association / Katie & Natalie, Ravenswood Event Center / Ada & Brendan, TheWit / Kristal & Brian, Galleria Marchetti / Dana & Noah, ARIA Minneapolis / Jenn & TJ, Galleria Marchetti / Rachel & Jon, Cozumel, Mexico / Ariel & Aaron, Ignite Glass Studios / Justin & Lani, Cancun, Mexico