Today I’m continuing my blog series on how to get the best wedding photos you can while working with your photographer! Today, we’re tackling the first look. If you don’t know what a first look is – or if you’re still up in the air about doing one – first – start with this blog post filled with 17 Reasons to Consider a First Look (yes, it is overwhelming, but there are overwhelming benefits to doing one!).

Five Tips for the Best First Look Photos

1. The first look can be tricky to execute. You want to find a private space – but sometimes that isn’t always possible. You may be getting married downtown and there are pedestrians everywhere! Talk with your photographer about your priority – is it having the best light for the photos? Or is it having the most privacy for this moment?
2. Speaking of privacy – think about who you want there ahead of time (if anyone!). Very often, the bridesmaids or family members ask if they can watch from close by or a balcony. If you want them to be a part of it – that’s totally fine – but don’t feel pressured to include them because they ask. Think about this ahead of time and make your decision thoughtfully so that we can back you up.
3. First looks don’t have to be done at your wedding venue. They can be taken at your getting ready location – or at a park nearby. The sooner you get the first look done (aka: at the getting ready location) the less time we waste making sure you’re hiding from each other and the more time you can spend together (while you’re traveling to the venue in the same vehicle, for example).
4. Take a few deep breaths. This is the moment you’ve thought about and anticipated for a long time. Do you have a vision of how you want it to happen? Do you want to walk up and tap your groom’s shoulder? Do you want to stand seven feet apart and tell him to turn around (so he can have the feeling of you walking towards him – like it will be down the aisle)? Think about this ahead of time and let your photographer know.
5. Enjoy it! Don’t rush this! Hold each other – twirl each other – take it all in. Forget that the cameras are there and just be yourselves on your wedding day. Those moments will create the best photos!

See more from this “get the best photos” series here:

• Wedding Detail Photos
• Getting Ready Photos
• Ceremony Photos
• Couple Portraits
• Wedding Party Photos
• Family Photos
• Reception Detail Photos
• Cake Cutting Photos
• Send Off Photos