The first look; a beautiful part of your wedding day, shared between you and your (very) soon-to-be husband or wife. As a photographer, I’ve seen quite a few first looks and have had the honor of watching the wave of emotions that come with this intimate time. A time where vows, letters, and prayers are shared. A moment where all stress and anxiety fades away as you look your person in the eyes and prepare for the excitement of the day to come. The tears, laughter, and biggest of smiles. The debut of your soon-to-be spouse; cherishing this peaceful moment that you can both pause in together.

Am I biased? Absolutely. Louis and I are so thankful we did a first look because it really gave us a moment to pause with one another and feel our emotions deeply before we were surrounded by all of our people for the rest of the day. It’s like time stopped and we were given a second to breathe and be present with one another. Before spending the rest of the day with our family and friends, it was refreshing to spend this emotional moment together. It was raw and beautiful, filled with anticipation, and something that Louis and I will never forget.

From a photographer’s point of view? Magical. Capturing this intimate time with couples is quite the honor and witnessing each emotion is so incredibly special. This also means that you get wayyy more photos of just the two of you! Through these photos, you’ll be taken back to how you felt in that moment, each time you look at them. The gift that keeps on giving, of course. We are here to capture these kinds of emotions that stand the test of time, and we are grateful to be intertwined in your day; especially in your first look!

While we truly enjoyed this moment, it’s absolutely understandable that this isn’t the right option for every couple! This is your day- do what feels right to the two of you. The pros of not having a first look? It’s a traditional take on the day! Think of all the swelling emotions that will come to surface right there in the place that you’ll say “I do.” Whether you choose to have a first look or not, seeing your human dressed to the nines as happy as can be, is a moment to cherish for all of time.