Pro Tips for Capturing That First Look Magic

The "first look"—when the bride and groom see each other just before the  wedding—is one of the most memorable and emotional moments you'll have on your wedding day. Think about it: After months of finding the right dress, hairstyle and makeup, you finally get to show your groom. Beyond the actual first look moment, the two of you have a bit of time to spend together before being thrown into the happy frenzy that is your wedding day! To make sure that first look magic is captured precisely, we asked professional photographers for tips on how to make it happen.

Don't Underestimate the Power of Lighting

"Find the perfect spot where the lighting is exceptional." —Michelle Beller, owner and principal photographer, Michelle Beller Photography

"Since a first look is a private moment between the bride and groom, finding a location that is not just aesthetically pleasing but also remote is key. This allows for an intimate and genuine first exchange, without millions of eyes and guests surrounding them." —Kelli Durham, owner/photographer, Kelli Durham

"I tell all my brides and grooms that they should think of the photography as secondary [to the wedding]. The primary perspective for them is to deeply experience and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime event. This is especially true during the first look. Not only will it be a much more meaningful experience for them, but I get much better photos that way." —Ira Lippke, owner/photographer, Ira Lippke Studios

"The day goes by in a blink! Doing a first look prior to the ceremony is a great way to spend more time together on your wedding day." —Liz Banfield, owner/photographer, Liz Banfield

"Try your best to forget about all of the hustle and bustle of the wedding day, and allow yourself to fully appreciate the moment. Your first look only happens once, and you want to be able to remember it for years to come." —Erich McVey, owner and lead photographer, Erich McVey

"It's not just for grooms! Some of the most touching moments I've experienced are when a father sees his daughter in her wedding dress for the first time." —Bryan Miller, owner/photographer, Bryan Miller Photography

"Regardless of what people tell you to do, a first look should be a moment that is uniquely the two of you. If you're shy, keep it intimate. Or if you're traditional, your first look might be when you're walking down the aisle. Making sure you're comfortable will create the best images." —Jeanann Wilkinson, owner, J. Wilkinson Co.

"Schedule your first look to directly follow getting ready. There is a beautiful energy that surrounds putting on the gown, straightening the tie, and preparing to walk down the aisle. Carry that momentum right into your first glimpse of one another with all the butterflies and nervous energy so present. That will be felt in your photos but more importantly, it will be felt between the two of you and that's magic." —Britt Chudleigh, owner and lead photographer, Chudleigh Weddings

"An ideal location for a first look is one that provides both privacy for the couple and a great vantage point for the photographer, like a doorway which provides natural framing." —Jane Shauck, owner, IRIS Photography

"I usually like to set up the shot with the bride walking to the groom. I love getting the movement of the bride and the dress. It's also great getting the groom's reaction seeing his bride for the first time." —Greer Gattuso, owner, Greer Gattuso

"Pick an area that is secluded and focus on each other! That doesn't mean friends and family can't watch if you want them too, but make sure they are at a distance. This is a moment where you should not have any distractions other than each other." —Miki & Sonja Rakicevic, owners/photographers, Miki & Sonja Photography

"Experienced wedding planners and photographers will provide input on timing and locations for a seamless first look. Trust them– it's one less thing you have to worry about on your big day." —Ashley Sawtelle, owner/photographer, Ashley Sawtelle

"Don't worry too much about the photos. The best come from real emotion, and by virtue of doing a first look, you have opened up the day for a wealth of great photo opportunities!" —Lucy Cuneo, owner and principal photographer, Lucy Cuneo Photography

"Let it be real! A first look is supposed to provide a time and space for a couple to have a special moment when timing doesn't allow them to have it at the beginning of the ceremony. Too often the first look becomes overly staged and controlled and the couple are made to feel like they are performing rather taking everything in and enjoying the moment. Unfortunately, it usually shows in the photos. If there is ever a time for the organic moment where the photographer doesn't say anything, this is it!" —Emily Blake, owner/photographer, Emily Blake Photography