Our Favorite First Look Moments (with Video Examples)

Real Couples, Real Emotions, Real Stories

It happens in a quiet garden.
Or an old Italian courtyard.
Sometimes, on a hotel rooftop just before sunset.

Two people, dressed for the biggest day of their lives, meet before anyone else sees them. That moment — the First Look— is something we never get tired of filming. It's short. It's intense. And it's almost always unforgettable.

What Is a First Look?

For those unfamiliar, a First Look is when the couple sees each other for the first time before the ceremony, usually in a private, quiet place away from the guests.

It breaks tradition, but it adds something so much deeper: intimacy.

We've filmed dozens of First Looks across Europe, and each one has been unique. There’s no script. Just emotion.

Why We Love Filming First Looks

From a filmmaking perspective, First Looks are a dream.
Here’s why:

You get pure emotion, without an audience.

The couple is relaxed, but the tension is real.

There’s space—time to breathe, talk, cry, hug, or laugh.

It adds structure to the film: a visual and emotional peak before the ceremony even begins.

Technically, it also gives us room to shoot from multiple angles. The lighting is often better. The pacing is smoother. And the moment, when done right, becomes one of the most treasured scenes in the entire film.

🎥 Want to see what that looks like? Check out some of our favorite real wedding films here.

First Look Stories We’ll Never Forget

In Florence, a groom waited under a stone arch as bells echoed from a nearby church. His bride approached slowly, the wind tugging at her veil. When he turned, he gasped. She cried. And so did we.

In Copenhagen, two women met at dawn by the waterfront, dressed in elegant suits. There were no words — just a touch of the hand, and then a kiss. It was simple and powerful.

On a rainy terrace in Tuscany, the groom held an umbrella for his bride as she walked toward him. Raindrops tapped softly as they embraced. It wasn’t the plan, but it was perfect.

Should You Do a First Look?

It depends. Some couples want to save that moment for the aisle. And that's beautiful, too.

But if you’re feeling nervous about the day, or if your timeline is tight, a First Look might add calm. It gives you a moment of togetherness before the rush. You’re reminded: this is about us.

Bonus? It gives your videographer (and photographer) a golden opportunity to capture authentic emotion.

If you’re wondering how we plan and shoot these moments, feel free to ask — or explore our wedding film packages to see what’s included.

Quick Tips for a Beautiful First Look:

Choose a location that’s quiet and well-lit — morning or golden hour is best

Don’t rehearse — natural is better

Coordinate timing with your video/photo team

Keep the group small — or just the two of you

Trust your team — we’ll make it feel natural

Where It Works Best

Venetian alleys at sunrise

Tuscany vineyards at sunset

Inside an elegant apartment in Paris

Private gardens in Spain

Clifftop villas in Portugal

Wherever you are, we’ll find the spot where it feels right.

 

First Looks aren’t for everyone.
But for many of our couples — especially those eloping or marrying abroad — they become one of the most powerful parts of the day. It’s a deep breath before everything begins. A reminder of what really matters.

🎥 Explore our portfolio to see how these moments come alive on film.
📩 Have questions or want to book a date? Reach out to us here.

Let’s make your First Look unforgettable — together.