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The Top 5 Reasons To Do a First Look On Your Wedding Day

Here’s the best reasons why you should do a first look at your wedding. From a wedding photographer’s perspective

A couple laughs and holds each other  during their first look on their wedding day.

First looks are quickly becoming the norm at weddings. Couples are opting out of the tradition of waiting until the ceremony to see each other. If you’re still undecided, keep reading to find out the top 5 reasons why you should do a first look.

1. You’ll spend more time together at your wedding

This is the biggest and most important reason to do a first look. You’ve been planning your wedding for months, maybe even years, and the big day is finally here! Spend as much time as possible with your favorite person! You’ll want to share all the moments throughout your big day. You can’t do that if you spend half the day separated. See each other early, start the celebrating, and create your wedding memories together.

2. Have a private moment
A bride and groom have a quiet moment.

You’ve probably heard people say “you don’t get much alone time at your wedding.” Well, it’s kind of true. There’s so many things happening, it’s a big day full of emotions. You’ve got your friends and family who are all there to celebrate you two. It’s easy to rush from one thing to another. A first look is a great way to slow down, take a moment together, and reflect on all the life chapters that brought you to this moment.

A couple has a quiet moment during their first look

Take a minute. Be close.

A couple holds each other for portraits on their wedding day.
Beautiful couple at Cave B Winery

Think about why you’re here. Then jump back into the excitement of your wedding.

A couple on a windy day with their hair flowing in the breeze.
3. First looks are really fun to photograph

First looks aren’t just for taking a quiet moment to yourselves. It’s about celebrating! You two are starting a new adventure together! It’s a time for laughs, hugs, and kisses. Be yourself with your person.

A couple laughs during their wedding at Mountain Springs Resort.
Fall wedding at Mountain Springs Lodge

As a photographer, we get to be there to capture this very authentic and genuine moment. It’s something you can never recreate.

A groom is so excited to see his bride.
First look at Chateau Lill

These moments are something special. They’re real. You can’t pose or stage genuine emotion. These are some of my favorite moments.

A groom hugs his wife during their first look at Roche Harbor Resort. Another reason why you should have a first look.
A gorgeous wedding at Roche Harbor Resort
4. You get more time with your wedding party and guests

This is such an important reason to do a first look. It allows you to start the day earlier and be with your wedding party. If you don’t have a first look you won’t see your wedding party together until after the ceremony.

Which means you won’t have as much time for moments like this:

Everyone laughing and celebrating at the Woodmark Hotel for a new years eve wedding.
Wedding party celebrating at the Woodmark Hotel

Or this:

A couple is surrounded by their wedding party at their Sunset Club Wedding in Seattle

Or this:

A wedding party poses at Roche Harbor Resort on San Juan Island

If you do a first look, the schedule of the day opens up after the ceremony. You’ve taken couple’s portraits, wedding party photos, and maybe even family photos. That means you can jump right into your party and start celebrating!

A couple's grand entrance into their reception at Hidden Meadows in snohomish
5. Your wedding goes by fast – enjoy every minute!

Wedding days can absolutely fly by. You should be enjoying every single minute of it. Start the day early, see your person, be around your friends, and celebrate with your guests. Get out and live up your wedding day!

A beautiful bride and groom during their first look. Celebrating their wedding day.

These are the top 5 reasons why you should do a first look! Take a look around my portfolio for more inspiration or read my blog for more articles.

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