💫 What Is a First Look?
A first look is when the couple see each other before the ceremony — just the two of you (plus me with my camera tucked away at a distance). It’s a private, intimate moment where the emotions are real, the nerves melt away, and you can just be together before the whirlwind begins.
💖 The Pros of Doing a First Look
1. Eases the Nerves
You’d be surprised how many couples tell me, “I feel so much better now” after their first look. If the idea of being in front of everyone at the aisle makes your knees wobble, this might be for you.
2. More Time for Photos
Doing a first look opens up space in your timeline to get your couple portraits and wedding party photos done earlier — meaning you spend more time with your guests after the ceremony instead of rushing off.
3. Authentic Emotions
Yes, the aisle moment is powerful, but so is seeing your partner turn around and smile (or cry!) when you tap them on the shoulder. It’s just the two of you, and it’s magic.
4. Lighting Advantage
If you’re planning a late ceremony or a winter wedding when daylight disappears fast, a first look means we’ll still have beautiful, natural light for your portraits.
🛑 Reasons You Might Want to Wait for the Aisle Moment
1. You Want the Traditional Feel
Many couples still love that movie-moment of walking down the aisle and seeing each other for the first time in front of friends and family. That emotional build-up can be really special.
2. Timing Is Tight
If you’re having a shorter wedding day, or an elopement where everything flows in a small window, doing everything in the traditional order may just be easier.
3. You Want Your Guests to See It All
Sometimes the beauty of the reveal is sharing it with everyone you love — the reactions from guests, parents, and the whole crowd watching it unfold.
✨ A Third Option: The “Almost” First Look
Not quite ready to see each other but still want a moment? You can try a “no-look” first look — stand on either side of a door or wall and hold hands, read letters to each other, or say a few words before the ceremony, all while keeping the surprise for the aisle.
📍 A Quick Note About Locations
Whether you choose to do a first look or not, I’ll help you find the perfect spot. From sun-drenched coastlines around Newcastle, to vineyard backdrops in the Hunter, heritage estates in Port Stephens, or quiet, leafy corners in Lake Macquarie, there’s no shortage of incredible spaces to make your moment feel magical.
💬 My Take?
I’ve photographed dozens of first looks and just-as-many aisle-first moments, and I can honestly say — both are beautiful. What matters most is that it’s your choice and it feels right for you.
And don’t worry — whichever way you go, I’ll be there to capture every moment, every tear, every laugh and every breath in between.
📷 Visit www.leftofthemiddle.com.au to say hello or get in touch.
Let’s tell your story, your way 😊
– Melissa @ Left of the Middle Photography
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