First Look Tips for Your Wedding Day | Los Angeles Wedding Photography Guide

Jenny arrives and is prompted to tap Nick on the right shoulder to turn around and see her dressed for the first time.

Your wedding day is one of the most magical and emotional days of your life, and one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to have a first look or wait until you walk down the aisle. As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, I’ve captured countless first looks, and I’m here to guide you through everything you need to know to make the best decision for your wedding day.

What is a First Look, and Should You Have One?

A first look is a private moment between you and your partner before the ceremony, where you see each other for the first time on your wedding day. This intimate experience can be filled with laughter, tears, and overwhelming joy—but is it the right choice for you?

Here are a few key questions to ask yourself when deciding:

• Do you want more time for photos before the ceremony? A first look allows you to get most of your portraits done early, so you can enjoy cocktail hour with your guests.

• Is saying your vows in private important to you? Some couples choose to exchange personal vows during the first look instead of in front of everyone at the ceremony.

• Do you want to soak in the moment together? If you prefer a private, emotional moment before the day’s events unfold, a first look is a great choice.

• Is walking down the aisle the moment you’ve always envisioned? If you’ve dreamt of the traditional aisle reveal, skipping the first look might be the way to go.

First Look at Jenny & Nick’s Wedding at Wedgewood Weddings in Sterling Hills

One of the most beautiful first looks I’ve captured was at Jenny & Nick’s wedding at Wedgewood Weddings Sterling Hills in Camarillo, CA. This stunning venue is perfect for couples looking for a blend of elegance and natural beauty. With its lush golf course, gorgeous outdoor ceremony space, and classic Spanish-style architecture, it’s a dream setting for Southern California weddings.

For their first look, we found the perfect spot—a serene area with a gorgeous set of trees at 1 PM when the sun was harsh. To avoid unflattering lighting, we intentionally chose a shaded location, ensuring that the lighting was soft and flattering. I always arrive early to explore the venue and find the best locations for first looks, ensuring that the lighting is perfect and the background is stunning.

Tips for a Perfect First Look

1. Choose a Location with Great Lighting

Lighting is everything in wedding photography! Look for shaded areas with soft, diffused light to avoid harsh shadows and squinting. Jenny & Nick’s first look spot was shaded by trees, giving them a beautifully lit moment without direct sunlight overpowering their expressions.

2. Keep It Private

A first look is an intimate moment—consider having it in a secluded area where you won’t be interrupted. Whether it’s a quiet garden or a scenic corner of your venue, a little privacy makes the moment even more special.

3. Plan the Timing

For most weddings, the first look happens about 1.5 to 2 hours before the ceremony to allow enough time for portraits and bridal party photos. This means you get more pictures before the ceremony and can relax and enjoy the reception with your guests.

4. Decide if You Want to Exchange Vows

Many couples take this private moment to exchange heartfelt words that they might not feel comfortable saying in front of a crowd. If you’re thinking about doing this, let your photographer know so they can capture those emotions beautifully.

5. Stay in the Moment

The best first look photos happen when couples forget about the camera and focus on each other. Don’t stress about reactions—just be present, and let the emotions flow naturally.

Final Thoughts

A first look isn’t just about getting extra photos—it’s about creating a meaningful moment with your partner before the whirlwind of the day begins. Whether you choose to have a first look or not, your wedding day will be uniquely yours, and I’ll be there to capture every beautiful moment.

If you’re planning your wedding at Wedgewood Weddings Sterling Hills or any other stunning venue in Southern California, I’d love to help you document your love story in the most authentic and cinematic way possible. Let’s create something magical together!

Ready to Book Your Wedding Photographer?

I capture timeless, emotive moments for couples who want a relaxed, dreamy, and editorial wedding gallery and capturing timeless, emotive moments for couples who want a relaxed, dreamy, and editorial wedding gallery. If you are looking for a SoCal wedding photographer who will make your wedding day effortless and unforgettable, let’s connect!