The Best First Looks of 2022

December 8, 2022

Those who know me already know I have such a soft spot for first looks! I will never pressure my couples to have one if they are truly set on not doing one. But I always love to explain them from a point of experience and share all the benefits so they can then decide knowing more about them! They are one of mine and so many other’s favorite part of a wedding day for a reason! So many of my couples that have gone in thinking they don’t want a first look have often changed their minds once they hear all the benefits. And after their big day they are so thankful they chose to do one!

First Look Benefits!

Many may not think about this, but often first looks are the only alone time a couple may get on their wedding day. Yes, your photographer and possibly videographer will be there, but we have long lenses for a reason! We stand back and let you have your moment, all while capturing it for you to relive over and over again. During a first look, you actually get to tell each other how amazing they look. You can hug, kiss, and hold each other. You can take this time to exchange gifts or share intimate vows for just the two of you. When the first look happens during the ceremony, all expecting eyes are on you and your reaction. Anything you want to say or hugs you want to give will have to wait until after the ceremony. But then it’s not quite the same as in that first moment.

When choosing to have a first look you allow more time on your wedding day! Seeing each other before the ceremony is a perfect segue into your romantic bride and groom portraits. Most of your portraits can be done before the ceremony happens, including your whole bridal party and sometimes even family. This will make a much shorter time between your ceremony and reception so your guests aren’t waiting around for you to finish your portraits before the reception can begin. You also won’t be as rushed!

You end up with MORE portraits with a first look! We take the majority of your bride and groom portraits immediately following your first look. But then most couples also opt to take a few more portraits during sunset. I always highly recommend this, as the lighting is usually PERFECT during this time of day and then end up being some of the favorites! So you get two sets of portraits during your day!

First Look Alternatives

If you are truly set on not seeing each other but would still like a special moment together during your day, you could also consider a first touch! We did a couple of those this year as you’ll see below. These were truly special, intimate, and emotional moments for just them. You also don’t want to forget about all of those first looks you can have that aren’t with your significant other! The daddy-daughter first look has to be one of my favorites! Check out these dads and how they reacted to seeing their little girls ready to walk down the aisle. The bridesmaid first look is also a great one to do with your girls! There are so many options! If you’re a Joni Loraine bride and groom let’s chat about your thoughts on a first look and what kinds you’re wanting to have on your special day! 2022 was definitely a year of amazing and emotional first looks!