First Look Videos Explained
- Makenzi Starr

- Oct 1, 2025
- 3 min read
What is a First Look Video? Do I need one?
When planning your wedding photo and video coverage, one of the most exciting add-ons to consider is a First Look/Bridal session. These are very popular in the Utah and Idaho areas.
Unlike the whirlwind of the actual wedding day, this is a completely separate photoshoot that happens on a different day and at a location of your choice.
You will dress in your wedding attire, bring along your photographer and videographer, and relive that unforgettable “first look” moment in a relaxed and fun setting.
In this blog, we will walk you through what First Look Videos are, so you know what to expect and why couples love scheduling them.
Let's get started!

What is a First Look Session?
A First Look session is seeing your partner for the first time in their wedding attire. It is all about slowing down and creating intentional time to capture your love story without the stress of a wedding day timeline. Think of it as a chance to put on your wedding attire again, get glammed up, and enjoy an hour just being together.
At Starr Photo and Video these sessions usually last about one hour at one location. Both your photographer and videographer are present for the entire shoot which means your story is captured in both stunning still images and cinematic video. You get about 200 photos from the session and a 2-3 minute highlight styled video.
The session starts with that iconic reveal moment when one partner sees the other for the first time. Sometimes there are big smiles, sometimes there are tears, and sometimes there is pure laughter. But no matter what the reactions are, they are always genuine. After that first look is captured, we move into portraits together as a couple, then solo photos and video of the bride, and finally solo photos and video of the groom.
Why Couples Love First Look Videos
If you search “First Look Videos,” you will find that couples love these sessions for so many reasons. They take away the rush, they give you a private emotional moment, and they result in some of the most breathtaking footage of your entire wedding journey. These are usually the couple's most favorite photos and video.
On the wedding day itself there is usually a packed schedule, guests to greet, and little time to breathe. By planning a First Look session on a different day, you are able to be fully present with one another. No distractions, no stress, just you and your partner soaking in every second.
What Happens During the Session
Here’s a peek at how a typical First Look session with Starr Photo and Video flows:
The Reveal: You and your partner share your big first look moment while we capture it from every angle.
Couple Portraits: Once the nerves settle, we take romantic and natural portraits of the two of you together.
Bride Portraits: The bride gets her moment to shine with stunning solo shots that highlight her dress, bouquet, and style.
Groom Portraits: The groom steps into the spotlight for strong and timeless solo shots.
The whole process feels calm and enjoyable. Because it is scheduled separately from the wedding day, you get to slow down and focus on each other.
The Benefits of a First Look
Wondering if a First Look session is right for you? Here are some of the biggest perks couples rave about:
More time to enjoy your wedding day since portraits are already taken care of.
A chance to choose a dream location for photos that you might not have time to visit on the wedding day.
A relaxed experience where you can fully be yourselves.
A beautiful keepsake video that preserves the genuine emotions of that reveal moment.
More time spent together in your wedding attire which makes the day feel even more special.
First Look Videos Explained: Why They’re Worth It
At Starr Photo and Video we believe your love story deserves to be captured in every beautiful way possible.
When you look back years from now, you will be able to relive not just how you looked in your wedding attire but also how you felt in that once-in-a-lifetime moment. That is the true magic of First Look videos.
If you are considering a First Look session, we would love to help plan the perfect location and capture every second of the fun. After all, your story deserves to be told in a way that feels uniquely you!




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