First looks make the sweetest photos. As a self-proclaimed crybaby, these things get me right in the feels EVERY time. My favorite part about them is how raw the emotion is. Most people are so caught up in seeing the bride or groom that they forget about the cameras. It’s much more likely to capture a natural reaction and all the emotion of that day then the formals do.

Another amazing part about them is that the more people you let see you before the ceremony, the more photos you can get out of the way. I love the idea of being able to spend as much time with guests as possible, and once you get married and see everyone, it can feel brutal to be pulled away to take photos. This helps you get great photos when you’re the freshest (make up and hair just done) and adrenaline hopefully not coursing through your body yet.

That being said, we never did a first look. I had envisioned my whole life that my husband would see me in my dress for the first time when I walked down the aisle. I will admit, our formals suffered because of this (especially since it rained during our ceremony) BUT I wouldn’t go back and change that. If you choose not to do a first look with your hubby, you do have the option of meeting up with him behind a door or a large tree outdoors (your photographer will know what would look good) just to hold his hand or to say a quick prayer. It’s a great chance to recenter and refocus on the upcoming marriage.

What first looks do you want to do or are you so glad you did during your big day? Comment and let me know!