Let’s talk about one of our favourite wedding-day moments: the First Look. You’ve probably heard photographers rave about them (guilty as charged!), but what’s the big deal? Is it magic? A secret photo hack? A chance to ugly-cry in peace? (Spoiler: All of the above.)


We're spilling the tea on why we’re obsessed—and why you might want to add this to your timeline too.




What Even Is a First Look?


Imagine this: Instead of waiting until you’re halfway

down the aisle to see your partner, you steal a quiet, just-the-two-of-you moment earlier in the day.


Maybe it’s in a sunlit garden, a moody hallway, or

beside that weirdly charming antique car Uncle Bob insisted you include. You tap them on the shoulder, they turn around, and… BOOM! All the nerves,

excitement, and love hit at once.


No audience. No pressure. Just you.


(Pro tip: This is where 90% of photographers discreetly wipe away tears behind their cameras. We’re professionals, okay?)


Why Photographers Lose Their Minds Over First Looks


1. We Get the Real Feels

That raw, unfiltered reaction when you see each other for the first time? It’s like catching a shooting star. On the aisle, you’re aware of everyone watching. During a first look? It’s pure, unscripted emotion—the kind that makes will make your families gasp when they flip through your album.


2. Time? We’ll Actually Have Some

Wedding days move faster than a champagne-fueled conga line. A first look lets us carve out time for stunning portraits before the ceremony. Translation: More photos of you two glowing, less “HURRY, THE SUN’S SETTING AND AUNT LINDA NEEDS A NAP.”


3. Bye-Bye, Jitters

Nerves are normal! But a first look lets you two reconnect, laugh, and ugly-cry before the chaos kicks in. Most couples say it grounds them—like a secret reset button before saying “I do.”


4. Golden Hour? Let’s Own Golden Hour

With a first look, we’re not racing sunset for portraits post-ceremony. We can sneak out during that dreamy golden glow (or chase neon city lights if that’s your vibe) and create art that feels so you.


5. Two Reactions = Double the Magic

Worried you’ll “lose” the aisle moment? Nah—you’ll still get that heart-stopping walk. Now you just have two unforgettable moments: one intimate, one epic.


But Wait—Aren’t First Looks ‘Untraditional’?


Look, if you want to wait until the aisle, we’ll happily ugly-cry right there with you!

But here’s the truth: Your wedding, your rules. First looks aren’t “cheating”—they’re a modern twist that gives you more time, more photos, and more chances to breathe.


Plus, let’s be real: Tradition didn’t have Pinterest, food trucks, or sparkler exits either. And those are awesome!


How to Nail Your First Look:


  • Pick a Spot With Feels: A place that means something to you—or just looks stupidly pretty. We can help too!


  • Let Us Spy: We’ll be close (like ninjas with cameras) to capture every gasp, giggle, and “DANG, YOU LOOK GOOD.”


  • Write a Letter: Swap notes before the first look. Instant waterworks (in the best way).


  • Breathe. Then Soak It In: This moment’s yours. Take 30 seconds to just be together.



TL;DR: First Looks = More Magic, Less Stress


As photographers, we’re not just here to snap pics—we’re here to help you live your day. And first looks? They’re like a cheat code for more joy, more memories, and photos that make you say, “Holy cow, that’s US?!”



So… ready to make your photographer (and your future self) swoon? Let’s chat first looks—and maybe pack some tissues.



With Love,

Vee & Sean