Mary Wiebe Photography is a wedding and portrait photographer serving West Texas couples and families

Let’s talk about something that can truly transform your wedding day: A First Look.

Now, every wedding day is unique, and what matters most is that it reflects you. So, if you want to save that first look for down the aisle, I’m here for it! But if you’re on the fence about whether to do that or a private first look, I want to share a little photographer-insider perspective on why a first look might just be the secret ingredient to a smoother, more relaxed, joy-filled day.

Because when it’s done right, a first look doesn’t take away from the emotion—it adds to it.

As a Lubbock photography professional who’s captured dozens of weddings across West Texas, I’ve seen firsthand how beautifully a first look can shift the entire vibe of the day, for the better.

What is a First Look, Exactly?

A first look is a private moment where you and your soon-to-be husband see each other for the first time before the ceremony. It’s usually just the two of you (and me capturing that from a little distance ), away from the hustle of the crowd.

And let me tell you: these moments are priceless.

1. Calms the Nerves (Big Time!)

I’ve seen it time and time again-couples go from a bundle of nerves to totally at ease the second they see each other. The anxious jitters disappear, being replaced by joy-filled tears, hugs, laughter, and the feeling that this is happening!

As someone who offers Lubbock photography services filled with joy and peace, one of my favorite things is witnessing the emotional switch when couples choose a first look. It sets such a calm, grounded tone for the rest of the day.

2. More Time Together on Your Day

Let’s be honest: wedding days fly by. Between getting ready, the ceremony, portraits, dinner, and dancing, it’s easy to feel like you barely had a moment alone together.

Doing a first look gives you that extra time together with your favorite person. This gives you that fleeting moment where you get to laugh, soak it in, and be fully present before the whirlwind begins.

Many of my Lubbock photography couples say their first look was one of their favorite parts of the entire day.

3. Smoother Timeline = Less Stress

What the photographer side of me absolutely loves about a first look is that it opens so much flexibility in the timeline.

We can do:

• Couple portraits
• Wedding party photos
• Family photos

…all before the ceremony!

That means once you say “I do,” you’re free to mingle with your family and friends, hug your guests, and actually enjoy the party you planned—without disappearing for an hour of pictures.

And in Lubbock photography, where we often deal with windy plains or sudden sun shifts, having that time buffer is a total lifesaver!

4. Your Reactions Are So Genuine (and Beautiful!)

Some couples worry a first look will “ruin” that aisle moment. I get it—it’s a big, emotional walk!

But here’s what I’ve seen: the aisle moment is still powerful. You’re walking toward your forever, surrounded by all your people. Even if you’ve already seen each other, the weight of that moment doesn’t go away. In fact, some brides might feel more present and connected because the nerves are gone.

And from a photographer’s perspective? First looks give me more flexibility to capture those raw, genuine reactions in great light, without the time crunch of a post-ceremony rush.

5. More (and Better) Photos in Natural Light

If you’re having a late ceremony, doing a first look allows us to take advantage of that gorgeous natural light before it disappears. Especially in fall or winter months, this can make a huge difference in your gallery.

More time means more locations, more creativity, and more time to get those dreamy, joy-filled photos you’ll cherish forever.

Lubbock photography often has to work with West Texas wind, changing skies, and golden-hour magic—so having the flexibility of a first look means we can capture your day in the very best light.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Day That Feels Like You

Whether you choose a first look or wait until the aisle, my goal is the same: to deliver a gallery that brings you right back to all the excitement, emotion, and joy-filled moments of your wedding day.

But if you’re craving a more relaxed day… want to feel less rushed… or just love the idea of sneaking away for a private moment before the day kicks into full swing—a first look might be the perfect fit for you.

As a Lubbock photographer rooted in heart, joy, and Christ-centered service, I’m here to make sure your wedding day feels like you from start to finish.

Let’s Chat About Your Day

If you’re planning your wedding and wondering if a first look would fits your vision, I’d love to talk it through with you! Every wedding day looks different, and I’m here to help make yours as peaceful, fun, and unique as possible. Click here to see a few of the wedding photos I’ve captured.