3 Emotional Reasons to Have a First Look | Alexandra Robyn

3 Emotional Reasons to Have a First Look
behind the lens with Alexandra Robyn

Here’s an opening paragraph that balances your advocacy approach with emotional insight about first looks:

I’m a firm believer that your wedding day should unfold exactly as you envision it, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with choosing to save that magical moment of seeing each other for when you walk down the aisle—it’s a tradition steeped in anticipation and romance that creates an unforgettable moment to your ceremony.

But if You’re Open to Reason to have a First Look…

However, if you’re open to considering alternatives, a first look offers something uniquely powerful: an intimate, private moment between just the two of you before the whirlwind of the day takes over. There’s something deeply moving about sharing those initial reactions—the tears, laughter, and quiet words meant only for each other—without an audience of loved ones watching. It’s a chance to ground yourselves together, to actually be present with one another before you become the center of everyone else’s attention, and to create a memory that belongs entirely to you both before the day becomes about celebrating with everyone you love. My photography style is full of authentic moments that have a light and airy feel to them with a hint of romance. I’m drawn to emotionally charged moments, so it’s no surprise I love it when couples opt to do a pre-ceremony first look. Here are just a few compelling reasons to do a wedding day first look:

Wedding & Portrait Photographer Minneapolis, MN | Alexandra Robyn Photo + Design

It’s a Moment to Appreciate Where You Are

Something people ask often when debating whether to do a first look or not is: “will it make the ceremony less special?” A first look does not spoil your ceremony. A wedding is a surreal and emotional experience. It is an experience you share with all of your loved ones. But, with a private first look, I can capture a couple together completely in that moment. Yes, walking down the aisle is emotional too, but you don’t get that moment to decompress and really appreciate what is happening around you. Look at where you are! You are about to embark on an adventure with your love. I promise you will both be overwhelmed with emotion no matter what. So, superstitions be damned. Sneek a peek of your soon-to-be and you won’t regret it.

Any Anxieties Will Be Washed Away

Your wedding day can pass you by so quickly, it makes those private, intimate moments so meaningful. I highly recommend to all of my couples to take this opportunity to be together, just the two of you, while the whirlwind of a day allows. Any nerves you or your fiance might have felt, are washed away the moment you see each other. I like to check-in with my brides and grooms throughout the day. Even though each is excited to be getting married, there is always a little bit of anxiety in the morning. This is a huge, meaningful step and it only makes sense there might be some anxiety. 

A Moment to Connect before the Ceremony

But what a first look really offers, above all else, is the ability to connect with one another and take that much needed deep breath. Whether you watch your soon-to-be tear up or be overcome with joy, it is your private moment – something only you share. 

Later in the day, when I ask: “when did it become real for you – that you were getting married?” My brides and grooms always reply with: “that first look.”

Reasons to have a First Look

As Brides magazine points out, first looks have grown in popularity and offer countless benefits First Looks: What to Know About This Modern Wedding Tradition, from creating time efficiency to providing that intimate connection before the whirlwind begins. Whether you choose to embrace this modern tradition or hold to the classic surprise of the aisle moment, the most important thing is that your choice feels authentic to your love story. The beauty of modern weddings lies in their flexibility—you get to craft a day that reflects who you are as a couple. If a first look allows you to be more present with your guests, capture those raw emotional moments in photos, and start your wedding day feeling grounded and connected, then it might be the perfect addition to your celebration. After all, your wedding should be a reflection of your relationship, not a checkbox of traditional expectations.

To book your own portrait session today, or to learn more about Alexandra Robyn and her photography services, click here.

Loved this post? Here are other Photo Blog posts you might like:

Madeline Island Wedding

Nicollet Island Inn Wedding

Royal Golf Club Wedding

Behind the Lens: Meet Alexandra Robyn

Rain on Your Wedding Day