Your First Look, Your Way

There’s something incredibly special about seeing your partner before anyone else does. A first look gives you time to be yourselves. To hug, to laugh, to cry, to soak in the moment, before stepping into the celebration together. It’s a pause in the day that becomes one of the most cherished memories.

Do I want to do a first look?

Choosing whether or not to do a first look is completely personal. I never push couples in either direction - my job is to document your day exactly as you envision it, not to convince you of one option over the other.

A first look can be a great choice if you’re tight on time, want to enjoy more of your cocktail hour, or prefer spending more of the day together. If you love the tradition of seeing each other for the first time down the aisle, we’ll honor that fully. It truly comes down to what feels right for you as a couple.

If you decide not to do a first look but still want a moment of connection before the ceremony, here are a few sweet alternatives. These usually happen around a doorway, corner, or wall where you can be close without seeing each other:

First touch - holding hands without looking
Breathing together to calm nerves
Reading vows to each other
Reading letters you’ve written to one another

Whatever you choose, we’ll plan it into your timeline so the moment feels meaningful!

How do you want to see your partner?

There are so many sweet and meaningful ways to experience your first look, and each one feels unique to the couple. Some brides love standing at a distance so their partner can take in the full moment. Others are so excited they run straight into their partner’s arms. Every version is beautiful in its own way.

Here are some common first‑look styles couples choose:

Standing close enough to tap your partner on the shoulder
Running your hand up their back so they turn toward you
Standing a little farther away and calling for them to turn
Running to your partner for an excited, emotional hug
Partner facing a wall or door, with the bride entering or the door opening for the reveal

Think about the feeling you want this moment to have - quiet and emotional, playful and energetic, or somewhere in between.

During your first look neither myself nor second shooter will disturb you, you will let us know when you're done. We want you to take your time and truly enjoy your moment.

Locations

If you already have a spot in mind for your first look, I’d love to hear it. Whether it’s a quiet corner of your venue, a scenic outdoor area, or a meaningful location you’ve envisioned, sharing those ideas helps me plan ahead. If you’d rather give me full creative freedom, I’m happy to choose a beautiful, private place that fits the mood you want.

We’ll talk through all of this during our timeline meeting so we can pick a location that feels perfect for the moment!

One Unique First Look that I've Seen

One of the most unforgettable first looks I’ve ever photographed was Brianna and Ari’s. She hadn’t mentioned anything beforehand, mostly because Ari was present for all of our meetings - so when she walked into the room with a bright red clown nose on, I was just as surprised as he would be. With Ari’s back turned, I quickly snapped a photo of her wearing it, knowing the moment was about to be priceless.

When he finally turned around, his reaction was everything. He burst into laughter, instantly smiling from ear to ear. The way he looked at her said, “I’m so happy I’m marrying her.” It was playful, sweet, and so perfectly them. Their energy was fun, comedic, and creative, which made the entire day a joy to capture.

Moments like that remind me how personal and meaningful a first look can be. It’s your moment, your personality, and your story!

Will you be reading your vows during your first look, or saving them for the ceremony?

Other First Looks You Can Do...

There are so many meaningful first‑look moments beyond seeing your partner. These can be incredibly special additions to your timeline -especially if you’re not planning a traditional first look with each other. They create beautiful memories, emotional reactions, and sweet connections with the people closest to you.

Here are some options couples often choose:

Parent First Looks - a heartfelt moment with mom, dad, or a parental figure
Bridesmaids First Look - always full of excitement and big reactions
Groomsmen First Look with the Bride - fun, energetic, and often hilarious
First Look with Kids - incredibly sweet if you have little ones involved

These moments add depth to your gallery and give you more opportunities to connect with the people who matter most.

Tips

Below are a few thoughtful tips to help you slow down, stay present, and truly savor this moment together.

Take a few deep breaths together before turning around! It helps calm nerves, grounds you both, and makes the moment feel even more connected.
Reading your vows privately during your first look can be incredibly meaningful. It’s a beautiful option for couples who feel nervous about sharing their vows in front of guests during the ceremony. A private moment allows you to be fully present with each other without the pressure of an audience.
It’s also helpful to talk with your partner ahead of time about whether you want to kiss before the ceremony. Some couples love sharing that moment during their first look, while others prefer saving their first kiss of the day for the aisle. Once you’ve decided, let me know so I can guide you through the photos in a way that fits your plan.