Archives
Luke & Shannon | San Diego | 08.23.25
Pros and Cons of a “First Look” on the Wedding Day
This is one of the conversations I have regularly with clients: whether or not to do a first look before the ceremony. So, here’s what I tell them:
Pros of doing a first look:
- If you’re an introvert, this gives you a chance to touch and look at your husband/wife before there’s a bunch of people staring at you.
- You can do private vows if you want.
- You can do family photos before the ceremony and get them out of the way.
Cons of doing a first look:
- You don’t get the first look of the bride coming down the aisle.
- You will have to finish hair/makeup earlier to account for extra time pre-ceremony.
Isn’t it tradition not to see the bride until the ceremony?
Actually, a Jewish wedding planner pointed out to me once that it’s actually an older tradition to HAVE a first look. It dates back to when Jacob was fooled into marrying the wrong sister. The “Bedeken” is where the groom takes a first look at his bride and they give their consent for marriage, then he pulls the veil over her face.
Personal opinion: as an introverted person, I love giving brides and grooms a chance to see each other, breath, and relax before all the craziness of the wedding starts. I like watching them connect with each other, remind themselves why they are doing this, and just have some alone time before committing their lives to each other. Ultimately, the choice and experience is in your hands, though! Nobody is going to hell for having a first look (or not having one). You’ll be fine no matter what you choose. Enjoy the day. 🙂
Shane + Leslee | 6.14.25 | The Altar, Long Beach
This day had a simple, elegant, vintage wedding design and coordination. The vendors were all amazing, leading to a well-executed day. Wedding venue: Altar, Long Beach. The wedding day-of coordinator was Faye. Cake was crafted by Cynthia at Pink Corner Bakery. The DJ was Matt. Live musician was Chelsea.
Favorite Wedding Inspiration
Notice that the ceremony was set with the reception tables. This lead to much simpler logistics between the ceremony and the reception. Let me explain. Typically, in between the ceremony and the reception, either the venue has to have three spaces (one for the ceremony and one for the reception, then a mid-ground for cocktail hour), or staff/coordinators have to “flip” the ceremony space from audience-style chairs to tables and chairs. This couple simply had guests sit at the tables during the ceremony. This really helped with photography and logistics.
Rings: the couple secretly designed rings for each other and neither saw their own ring before the wedding. It was a really cute surprise during the ceremony.
Rehearsal Photographed: in leu of engagement photos (logistics just didn’t work out), they had me cover the rehearsal. It was really fun and I got to pre-set lights and get to know the bridal party and couple and figure out how I could use the space.
Starbucks Gift Cards for Vendors: some couples give tips, some give thank you notes, some don’t do anything at all. NO EXPECTATIONS AT ALL. These two gave gift cards with a cute little note for each vendor. It was such a sweet, thoughtful gesture (that’s where the money is going anyway).
Ashley + Mitchell
Stay tuned, more will be up on Wednesday!
Sam + Jeff | Orcutt Ranch Los Angeles Wedding Photography
A + J + E | Crestline Studio Maternity Photography
Rando + Keila | Point Dume Engagement Photography Los Angeles
Carolyn + Sean | Joshua Tree Inn Intimate Wedding Photography
Highlights: quilt square guest book, pre-wedding bridal shoot in Joshua Tree, so many family and friends helping out, historic location, super sweet bride and groom!
How to Get Married in Yosemite National Park
I LOVE photographing weddings in Yosemite. Definitely some of my favorite light in the entire world. This article will cover basic planning and how to get a permit to have a wedding in Yosemite National Park. I tell clients this information all the time, so I figured I should put it into a blog.