Deciding whether to have a first look can feel like a big decision. As a California photographer that has seen first looks countless of times, I’m here to share why a first look is one of the most memorable and meaningful moments of the entire day!

Sophia and Sean’s First Look

Sophia and Sean's first look is, hands down, my favorite to date. It happened right at the hotel where they got ready, creating an intimate and heartfelt setting. Sean stood blindfolded, anxiously waiting for Sophia’s tap on his shoulder. Close friends quietly gathered nearby, holding space for the magic that was about to unfold. In the background, I Guess I’m In Love by Clinton Kane played softly from the portable speaker clipped to my camera harness, setting the perfect mood!

As Sophia approached, tears were already welling in her eyes. Sean could hear her steps drawing closer, heightening the anticipation. We counted down—3, 2, 1—and Sean removed the blindfold, slowly turning to face her. Overcome with emotion, they took each other in, both of them brimming with love and joy. The moment was so raw, so real, that there wasn’t a dry eye among us. We all stood back, letting them soak in the magic of their first look.

Words from Sophia and Sean

We hired Evelyn for our engagement and wedding photos, not knowing the magic that she could create… when we received the engagement photos we were, of course, blown away—my husband, who hates being photographed, said he was excited for the wedding photos because he felt evelyn really made him comfortable and made him look great in each photo! …but nothing could prepare us for what we felt when we received our wedding photos. While my husband and I scrolled through our photos, we just wept being reminded of different sweet moments that we shared that day. Thank you for everything evelyn!

Reasons to Have a First Look

A First Look can make your TImeline Flow Better

After Sophia and Sean’s intimate first look, we dove straight into group photos with their wedding party. From there, the rest of the day was theirs to enjoy together, without the stress of hiding from each other to preserve the “reveal” for the ceremony.

Relieves Nerves

Now on a deeper level first looks can often help relieve anxiety and overwhelm. It gives you a minute to just be together before all the attention is on you or anything is required of you.

Captures Meaningful Moments

A first look is the perfect opportunity for me to capture the raw and unfiltered moments on your wedding day. Seeing each other for the first time is such a special moment and having a first look allows it to be just the two of you.