Heard the term 'first look' floating about in relation to weddings? Not sure what the hell is going on?

A 'first look' is a modern wedding tradition where the couple see each other for the first time on their wedding day before the ceremony. This private moment is typically captured by photographers and videographers, allowing the to-be-weds to share an intimate and emotional moment together away from the eyes of their guests.

The couple will then often go on to get portraits done together, meaning this part of the day is already ticked off (though you'll probably want to nip away for a quick 'golden hour' sunset session later on).

We’re seeing increasing numbers of engaged couples opting for a ‘first look’ and quite frankly, we love it. Not the newest trend at weddings, but this pre-ceremony preview is becoming more and more popular, and there are a few good reasons you might want to consider it.

It makes for a photo moment

Look, we're not here to tell you to do things for pictures. But there’s a rawness and sweet intimacy captured in photos of a first look. Having the opportunity to see each other before the ceremony commences creates that holy-crap-this-is-actually-happening feeling, and that excitement makes for some of the most treasured pics you’ll keep from the whole day. Take this real wedding as a perfect case in point. 

It’s a heat-friendly option

Concerned that you might be getting married on a sweltering hot 35-degree celsius day? A private moment between you two will allow you to knock out many of those couple portraits before you sweat off your makeup/bloom any underarm patches, giving you time to touch up (or dry off) before the ceremony starts.

It gives you more time to celebrate with your guests

Additionally, having your portraits done and dusted before the party takes off means you won’t need to step away from your guests and miss a minute of cocktail hour. Or at least, make the ‘golden hour’ sunset photo session more efficient.

It'll calm your nerves

Already feeling a wee bit nervous? Don’t really love the thought of having all eyes on you? Having a private moment between you and your significant other before the ceremony will take the pressure off a busy and emotionally charged day. Any pre-wedding jitters will be eased by a first look, and if you’re concerned that there won’t be any teary eyes or emotional moments in your ceremony, don’t be. It’s bound to happen when you meet each other at the end of the aisle. Not to mention, when sharing your vows.

It's especially ideal for winter weddings

Planning a dinner wedding in winter? The sun generally sets between 4:30-5:30pm, which is when you want to get away for those epic golden hour photos. However, it also happens to be right after most wedding ceremonies if you’re getting hitched in the afternoon, making that whole "just married" period a bit of a blur.

The beauty of a first look is that you can do the majority of your portrait photos before the ceremony and only duck away briefly after the ceremony for a shorter sunset session, leaving you more time to relish in those special “we did it!” feels with family and friends.

How to plan a first look

Make sure both you and your partner are on board with the idea of a first look. Discuss the emotional and practical benefits.

Work with your photographer to choose the right location and timing for the first look. Ensure they understand your vision and can capture the moment perfectly.

Select a spot that offers privacy and a beautiful backdrop. This could be a quiet garden, a scenic overlook, or a secluded room.

Incorporate the first look into your wedding day timeline, allowing enough time for photos and any additional moments you wish to share. Decide if this is when you want to do any wedding party photos as well. 

Understand that this will be an emotional moment. Take your time to enjoy it and soak in the experience.

The wrap-up

A first look is a beautiful and intimate way to start your wedding day. It allows a private moment for the couple to connect, reduces pre-ceremony jitters, and caters for gorgeous, emotional photo opportunities. Whether you choose to incorporate a first look into your wedding day is entirely up to you and your partner's preferences and your chosen timeline for the day.