22 First Look Wedding Ideas to Make the Moment Truly Special

If you were iffy on a first look, then let this inspo persuade you.
Bride surprising the groom during their first look
Photo: PHARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY
Ariel Taranski
by
Ariel Taranski
Ariel Taranski
Ariel Taranski
The Knot Contributor
  • Ariel writes on a variety of wedding-related topics for The Knot.
  • She has previously worked for Southern Bride Magazine, Miss Design Berry and other woman-owned wedding brands.
  • She received her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Memphis.
Updated Oct 08, 2024

A new tradition in recent years has offered couples the chance to get their own private moment before the ceremony, and it's called the first look. We rounded up some first look wedding ideas as inspiration for your day, especially if you're still weighing the pros and cons of this pre-ceremony shoot. Plus, The Knot Vendor Marketplace makes it easy to find a photographer for your wedding day, especially one nearby and within your budget. Ask your wedding photographer for ideas or special locations for your first look, but some of these ideas may just do the work for you. So, let's take a look at some unique first look wedding photo ideas to help jumpstart your planning.

1. Destination Wedding First Look

If you're throwing a destination wedding, then finding the perfect spot on-site is essential. This couple found an area that offered them some privacy while still bringing the tropical vibes of their international affair.

2. Champagne Cheers First Look

Cheers to the nearlyweds during your first look. This is a fun first look wedding idea with your favorite bottle of champagne, and you're getting the party started before you even walk down the aisle, so it's a win-win.

3. First Look at Tropical Hideout

Make your first look truly special by finding a secluded spot of lush trees, sunshine and romantic vibes. Whether your venue's in a tropical forest or more temperate, you can't go wrong when you choose a backdrop of natural beauty for your first look photo shoot.

4. City Skyline First Look

Have a bird's eye view of the city with this unique first look idea at your wedding. You two will feel like you're on top of the world, and it's a chance to enjoy the view whether you're local or just there for your wedding day.

5. Polaroid First Look Wedding Idea

Remembering your first look through your own point of view is a must, and grabbing your own Polaroid or film camera will make it a frame-worthy memory in your home together. Plus, you can't beat an old-school method of photography.

6. Rustic Backdrop First Look

A unique photo prop can be a great way to make your first look stand out, like this vintage truck amidst the fall scenery. While your own venue may offer something different, any secluded spot is perfect for you two to see each other before walking down the aisle.

7. First Look and a Quick Snack

Your wedding day may be jam-packed, so how about squeezing in your favorite food with your spouse-to-be during your first look? This couple chose takeout during their special moment, but you can choose any snack or meal that you have bonded over in your relationship.

Find all the vendors you need

Meet every kind of expert from photographers to photo booth rentals.

8. Downtown Escape First Look

Just like the classic song "Downtown," by Petula Clark says, "Things will be great when you're downtown." A first look at the prettiest spot in the middle of the city is especially romantic, and you can even have it somewhere special to you two, like where you had your first date or proposal.

9. First Dance, First Look

You won't have to save your first dance in front of a crowded room, and a little twirl even makes for a special pose during this shoot. This wedding first look idea lets you have that special moment all on your own, so consider playing a special song from your phone for this photo op.

10. Reception Reveal First Look

Get a glimpse of your future spouse and the place where you'll party as newlyweds when you do a combination reception reveal and first look. This is a creative idea if you've got a wedding planner who's doing the setup for your reception venue so you both can be wowed by this moment.

11. Private First Look

Sometimes, a first look is just a chance to have a breather between all the hustle and bustle (no pun intended). Finding a secluded area with your S.O. and just taking in the moment can make a first look into a perfect wedding day memory.

12. First Look With Your Pet

Bringing your pet during your first look lets them be part of your big day without worrying about them getting overwhelmed. This private moment is great for pups, cats and other fur babies, and who can resist a wedding photo shot with your dolled-up pet?

13. Family First Look

A marriage is a union between families, and making your first look inclusive of your new family is a great way to start the wedding day festivities. Bringing your kid or kids into the moment helps strengthen that bond and makes for a picture-perfect moment.

14. First Look at the Beach

Even if you aren't tying the knot by the ocean, a trip to the beach for your first look is a fun, carefree way to celebrate your love story. Finding the best private spot for this first look wedding idea—where you can dig your toes into the sand and let loose—is a fantastic way to unwind before the ceremony.

15. Wedding Party First Look

How about bringing your whole wedding party into the first look photo shoot? Whether your party is big or small, including them at this moment is a great way to get some incredible reactions and stylish shots.

16. First Look on the Water

Here's a creative idea for your first look: renting a boat on the water for some relaxation before the wedding. It makes for a picturesque scene while also offering you some calm before the chaos.

17. Surprise First Look

Some couples don't want to do an official first look and opt for this alternative, or they want to do a slow turn for the big reveal. Either way, standing back-to-back lets you really soak in the moment and enjoy each other's company, whether you turn around or wait to see them for the first time walking down the aisle.

18. Mountain Getaway First Look Wedding Idea

How about a casual hike before your wedding ceremony? If you're having a mountain celebration or elopement, then picture the mountains as your backdrop for an unforgettable first look you'll want to hang up in your home.

19. First Look With Private Vows

You can save your official vows for the wedding, but this is an opportunity to say more to each other without the spotlight. Exchanging secret vows before the ceremony makes your first look even more memorable and unique.

20. Carriage Ride First Look

If you've ever wanted to feel like royalty, then a carriage ride as your first look gives you that fairy-tale setting. Plus, riding in a carriage on your way to the ceremony after your first look sorts out the transportation, as well.

21. First Looks and Celebratory Shots

Take a shot if you're about to be married. A first look with a celebratory shot of your choosing helps pump you up for the day ahead, and you can even go for a mocktail instead if you want to save the drinks for the reception.

22. Sunset Riverfront First Look Wedding Idea

If you're having a later wedding, then spending your first looks enjoying the sunset can be so romantic. And this riverfront offers double the views, with the water reflecting back the image of the sun's departure.

Up Next
  • bride and groom smile during wedding first look
    The Pros and Cons of Doing a Wedding Day First Look