First Look vs. Traditional Ceremony: What to Choose for Your Edmonton Wedding?

First Look vs. Traditional Ceremony: What to Choose for Your Edmonton Wedding?

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey filled with meaningful decisions. One of the most heartfelt ones is how to handle that magical first glimpse of each other in your wedding attire. A First Look is a private moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other alone (with the photographer discreetly capturing it). The traditional approach saves this reveal for the ceremony itself, when the bride walks down the aisle under the eyes of all your guests.

As an emotional and heartfelt wedding photographer in Edmonton, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing hundreds of these moments. I’ve teared up behind the camera more times than I can count, because each one is so deeply personal. There’s no right or wrong choice—only what feels true to your love story. Let’s explore both options together, honestly and warmly, considering Edmonton’s unique weather, seasons, and stunning locations.

What Is a First Look?

Imagine a quiet, intimate spot—just the two of you (and me, quietly in the background). The groom stands with his back turned, heart racing. The bride approaches softly, touches his shoulder… He turns around, and time stands still. Tears, laughter, tight embraces, whispered words meant only for each other. This is the First Look—a planned, private reveal before the ceremony.

These moments touch my soul every time. They’re raw, tender, and completely unfiltered. No audience, no pressure—just pure connection. Afterward, we flow naturally into couple portraits, and you’re already together, calm and glowing.

Why I Love First Looks (and Why So Many Couples Choose Them)

Honestly, it’s because they give you space to breathe and truly feel.

1. A private piece of magic just for you. Seeing each other alone lets emotions pour out freely. I’ve watched grooms who swore they “wouldn’t cry” break down with happy tears. This moment belongs only to the two of you. And trust me—the walk down the aisle still feels incredibly emotional and powerful, even after a First Look.
2. More time together as a couple. Instead of being apart all morning and afternoon, you’re side by side after the reveal. Holding hands, laughing, soaking it in. Meanwhile, I capture your portraits in the best light without any rush.
3. Less stress—especially in Edmonton. Our weather can be unpredictable: summer thunderstorms, short winter days, biting cold. A First Look lets us photograph the main portraits ahead of time, in golden-hour light or a cozy indoor spot. After the ceremony, you head straight to your guests for cocktails, hugs, and celebration—no missing a moment of your reception.
4. Deeply emotional photographs. I can get close, capturing every tear and glance. These images often become couples’ absolute favorites—they say, “This was our most precious moment.”

I remember one couple last fall: they chose a First Look by the North Saskatchewan River, surrounded by golden leaves. When he turned and saw her, he just froze. Then he whispered, “You’re the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.” I still get chills thinking about it.

But I Completely Understand Choosing Tradition

There’s something profoundly powerful about saving the first look for the ceremony. The doors open, your music plays, and the bride begins her walk down the aisle… The groom turns and sees her for the first time that day. The entire room holds its breath. Guests tear up, parents reach for tissues. It’s dramatic, cinematic, timeless.

I respect and adore this choice with all my heart. For many couples, it’s a cherished family tradition or something they’ve dreamed of since childhood. The built-up anticipation explodes in one breathtaking instant. I love photographing these ceremonies: the groom’s tears, the bride’s radiant smile, the shared joy rippling through the guests. These are the moments that squeeze your heart.

Benefits of the traditional approach:

• Maximum magic and drama during the ceremony.
• A more relaxed morning—you can sleep in a bit longer.
• Everyone shares the moment together, creating a beautiful collective experience.

The trade-offs: portrait sessions after the ceremony often take 45–90 minutes while guests wait at cocktail hour. In Edmonton’s winter, that can mean braving the cold; in summer, heat or sudden rain. You might miss part of your reception, and emotions are public—some grooms hold back tears in front of everyone.

What Works Best for Your Edmonton Wedding?

Our city is full of contrasts: endless summer light in river-valley parks, magical snowy winters in cozy venues. A First Look shines in summer, letting us capture that soft golden-hour glow in places like the River Valley or near the Legislature. In winter, it protects you from the cold—key photos done warmly indoors.

But if you’re dreaming of a classic ceremony amid falling snow or blooming gardens, tradition is timeless and perfect.

There are lovely compromises too: a “first touch” (holding hands around a corner without seeing each other) or reading private letters. I’m always here to help find what warms your hearts most.

My Most Heartfelt Advice

I photograph both styles of weddings, and each is beautiful in its own way. A First Look brings tenderness and calm; tradition delivers explosive emotion and grandeur. The only thing that matters is what resonates with you.

Talk with your partner: Is a private moment together more important, or sharing it with loved ones? Do you want to maximize time with guests after the ceremony? Are nerves a concern?

I’m always in your corner. Every couple I work with becomes part of a new love story, and I pour my heart into preserving it forever.