Should You Do A First Look At Your Wedding?

As a professional wedding photographer based in Calgary and the Rocky Mountains with over 15 years of experience capturing unforgettable moments — including countless first look wedding photos — I’ve seen just how meaningful and emotional these private moments can be.

I had the opportunity to photograph Lindsay and Jeff’s wedding back in 2024, and it was a wedding to remember. After all, these two pulled off the ultimate surprise and turned their engagement party into a full-blown wedding! Hosted at their home in a garden-party style, the couple thought of every detail — from the cocktail labels to the live music to the spectacular flower wall in bright summer shades.

Everything shifted into wedding mode after they announced their “I do’s” during a trivia game. Even with all the drama and excitement, when I asked them, “what was your best memory from the day?” this was their answer:

Lindsay and Jeff’s Perspective on First Look Wedding Photos

“The best part of our wedding day was the first look, where we said our vows on the ridge overlooking Fish Creek Park. It was quiet and intimate, the weather showed up for us at just the right moment, and everything felt calm and exactly as it should be. Having our dogs there made it even more special — one in a tiny tuxedo and the other in a dress — right beside us as we promised our lives to each other. It was simple, personal, and perfectly us.” — Jeff, groom.

This got me thinking that other couples may be wondering if a first look would work for them. If you’re not familiar with the term, a ‘first look’ is a private moment scheduled between the couple prior to the ceremony and typically captured by the wedding photographer.

I’ve photographed many first look wedding photos as well as the traditional approach, where the couple first see each other as they’re walking down the aisle. Ultimately, it’s your day, and you should choose what makes you most comfortable. Here are my two cents as a wedding photographer:

The Pros

• It’s so intimate and special and a memory you’ll cherish forever. Like Lindsay & Jeff, many couples choose to share intimate vows during the first look. As a photographer, I put on a long lens and hang back to respect the moment and to ensure any sentiments shared are just between you two.
• It can really calm your nerves before the ceremony, especially if you don’t relish being the center of attention. Seeing your love and letting out those first tears can ground you for the rest of the day.
• Your guests will love it, and here’s why. Typically, the first look wedding photos rolls into portraits of the couple, the bridal party and even family photos. This means that as you head into the ceremony, the bulk of your wedding photos are complete. After the ceremony, you can head directly into cocktail hour and celebrate with your guests. You can actually enjoy the signature cocktails you chose so carefully. Your guests will not be left to entertain themselves while you have photos taken.

The Cons

• If you’re all about wedding traditions, a first look may not be for you. Some brides (and grooms) have always dreamt of that “walking down the aisle “ moment. If that’s the case, go with your dream. Sometimes, family members or clergy have opinions on this as well.
• Some couples worry that the moment on the aisle will be anticlimactic after a first look. I can’t make that call for you. It’s all about what feels right for you on your wedding day.
• The first look does require some planning, but your wedding planner or photographer can help you with this. As a photographer, I scout out pretty locations in advance and with an emphasis on privacy, flattering light and avoiding potential intrusions.

Congratulations to Lindsay and Jeff on a perfect first look, followed by a beautiful wedding day!

Vendor Credits:
Florist: Flowers by Janie
Bridal Make-up: facerx
Bride’s Gown: Blissful Bridal
Hair: Pureform Salon
Videographer: Castaño Media
Photographer: Tara Whittaker Photography
Cupcakes: Crave
Musician: Zac Link Music

Reach Out To Book Your Wedding Photos

If you can’t get enough of that flower wall from Flowers by Janie, read all about it and more details on how Lindsay and Jeff planned their surprise wedding here. You can also see the details of their wedding decor in the reel by Oscar from Castaño Films (Janie’s husband) here.

Ready to book your wedding photos — maybe even first look wedding photos? Reach out to inquire with me here.