Everything you need to know about this sweet, emotion-packed pre-ceremony moment.


While traditions may say to wait until the aisle, modern couples are choosing a more personal route. A first look—that private, heart-skipping moment when you see each other before the ceremony—might be just what your love story needs.

If you’re wondering whether this sweet pre-ceremony sneak peek is right for you, let’s break down the magic and the perks. Spoiler: it’s about way more than just cute wedding photos!

A Quiet, Emotion-Packed Moment Just for You Two


Your wedding day is a beautiful blur—so many hugs, timelines, and happy chaos. A first look gives you something rare: uninterrupted time to simply be together. No posing. No directing. Just you, your love, and that electric moment when you lock eyes for the first time.

As your photographer, I won’t interrupt or choreograph a thing once the reveal happens. It’s completely unprompted—raw, real, and totally you. This moment is yours.


Tip: Choose a peaceful spot tucked away from the crowd. Want to make it even more meaningful? Exchange letters, whisper something sweet, or just hold each other and breathe it all in.


Real Emotions = Heart-Melting Photos



If you're dreaming of wedding pictures that feel as magical as the day itself, the first look is a goldmine. The anticipation. The jaw-drop. The tears. The laughter. It’s a photographer’s dream—and your future self will thank you for these priceless, candid keepsakes.


Tip: Let me know the vibe you're dreaming of—romantic and tender? Silly and playful? We’ll plan the location and lighting, but once the moment begins, I step back and let it unfold naturally.



Pittsburgh groom awaits his bride at first look
Pittsburgh bride peeks around her groom as he awaits the start of their first look
Pittsburgh bride taps her groom on the shoulder at first look
Pittsburgh bride and groom's first look in field at their family farm in Monongahela
Pittsburgh bride and groom's first look in field at their family farm in Monongahela
Pittsburgh bride and groom's first look in field at their family farm in Monongahela
Pittsburgh bride and groom's first look in field at their family farm in Monongahela
Pittsburgh bride and groom embrace in field at their family farm in Monongahela

More Time for Each Other (and the Party!)


Doing a first look lets us check off portraits and wedding party photos before the ceremony—hello, cocktail hour! That means you get more time to mingle, sip champagne, and celebrate with your favorite people.


Tip: Think about the season! If you’re getting married in the fall or winter, early sunsets mean you’ll lose natural light quickly. A first look earlier in the day gives you the chance to soak in that beautiful golden glow before it disappears—and guarantees stunning, well-lit wedding pictures without rushing post-ceremony.



Bonus benefit:

No rushed timeline = less stress, more dancing, and more time soaking in every dreamy detail of your day.

Calm the Nerves Before “I Do”


Butterflies before walking down the aisle? Totally normal. A first look helps ease those nerves and re-center you both on what really matters—your love and this incredible commitment you’re making.


Tip: Use your first look to reconnect. Laugh. Hug it out. Share a kiss. It’s a mini time-out from the hustle to just be with your person—like hitting pause in the best way possible.

So Is a First Look Right for You?


Ask yourself:

  • Would a quiet, emotional moment help ground you before the big walk?
  • Do you want more relaxed wedding pictures and extra time to celebrate with guests?
  • Are you open to reimagining tradition in a way that feels authentic to you?


If you're nodding “yes,” a first look might just be your favorite moment of the day. Let’s make it magical together! Ready to plan your perfect first look? Reach out to book your wedding photo experience—I’d be honored to capture that unforgettable moment just for you!

close up of bride and groom's custom coozie's depicting their dogs
Pittsburgh bride and groom embrace in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom embrace in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom run in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom run in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom run in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom dance in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom dance in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom stand in field at their family farm at golden hour
Pittsburgh bride and groom kiss in front of UTV in field at their family farm at sunset
Pittsburgh bride and groom walk in a field at their family farm at sunset
Pittsburgh bride and groom kiss in a field at their family farm at sunset