Why First Looks Matter

There’s a lot of talk about first looks, and over the years, we’ve come to encourage them for one simple reason: they make the wedding day flow better. If you’ve just exchanged vows, the last thing you want is to disappear for an hour while your guests sip cocktails without you. That first hour is full of hugs, champagne toasts, and the buzz of “we’re married!” and it’s too good to miss. A first look gives you the chance to get portraits and wedding party photos done earlier, so once the ceremony ends, you’re free to celebrate.

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The Emotional Side of Seeing Each Other Early

Some couples worry a first look will steal the magic from walking down the aisle. In reality, it often makes that moment even more emotional. We’ve seen couples cry, laugh, and whisper the sweetest things during their first look. You get a private pocket of time together before the day sweeps you up. That calm, joyful energy often carries into the ceremony; you’re not just reacting to nerves, you’re reacting to the weight of the moment.

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Photography Benefits of a First Look

From our side of the lens, first looks give us the time and flexibility to create portraits without the rush. We can choose the best light of the day, whether that’s soft morning shade or golden afternoon sun. We can wander a bit further for portraits, knowing you don’t have to sprint back to cocktail hour. And we can capture those wedding party and family photos without feeling like we’re running against the clock. The result: more relaxed portraits and more time later to soak up your party.

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Celebrating Without Compromise

Ultimately, a first look isn’t just about logistics, it’s about freeing you up to celebrate. Once the ceremony is done, you’re not being pulled away for photos, you’re right in the thick of it with your guests. You just got married. You deserve to clink glasses, hug your people, and dance your way into the evening without worrying about the timeline. That balance of meaningful portraits and uninterrupted celebration is why we’ll always be big fans of the first look.

philadelphia wedding photographers.

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Want to check out more from Ashley and Anthony’s wedding?

Check out their Deauville Inn Wedding here!

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philadelphia wedding photographers