It’s one of the most special moments your wedding photographer will capture – that first look between a couple before they walk down the aisle! Even though some couples choose to see each other for the first time at the wedding ceremony, one of the lingering trends in wedding photography is a ‘first look’ which does a fabulous job at capturing priceless, emotional reactions as a couple sees each other for the first time all decked out in gorgeous wedding attire.

If you want to include a first look into your Pittsburgh wedding photography experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure that everything goes perfectly:

Don’t Bring Anything with You

While you might want to include your wedding bouquet or be holding a glass of champagne to share with your partner, it’s best to show up for the first look without anything in hand. When you turn around and see your bride or groom for the first time, you never know what your reaction will be, and you don’t want to be fumbling around trying to figure out what to do with the items in your hand! This allows you to be completely candid and ready to hug or kiss – which is often an impulse reaction in such a joyous and emotional moment.

Use Props

Okay, while it’s a good idea not to hold anything, that doesn’t mean you can’t have some interesting props or barriers to play with during the first look. This can be something as simple as a blindfold that you wear standing next to each other until the final reveal, or it can be you both standing on either side of a pillar or wall holding hands until the first look wedding photo. Have fun with the moment and allow the anticipation to build – it creates magical wedding photographs!

Don’t be Concerned with Your Makeup

When you’re planning a first look Pittsburgh photography session, add in a touch-up option with your makeup artist. The last thing you want to do when you’re feeling over the moon and emotional about seeing your partner for the first time before the wedding is worrying about how your makeup will look at the end. Allow for a touch-up before the ceremony and have a blast during the first look!

One of the best ways to prepare for the first look is to go in without any expectations – that’s when the best picture happens. Need help planning your wedding day photography timeline? Send me a note and let’s chat!