The Sweetest First Look Reactions We’ve Photographed

Few moments on a wedding day are as emotional and authentic as the first look. It’s the instant all the nerves, excitement, and anticipation come rushing to the surface—and it's one of our favorite things to capture. 📸

Over the years, we’ve had the joy of photographing some truly unforgettable first look reactions. From happy tears to uncontrollable laughter, these moments are pure magic. Here’s a little glimpse into why we think first looks are such a must-have moment:

Why We Love First Looks:

• Private, Real Connection: It's a rare quiet moment just for the two of you, before the whirlwind of the day begins.

• Raw, Candid Emotions: The expressions are completely unfiltered—and they make for the most heart-melting photos.

• Eases Nerves: Sharing this moment often calms the butterflies and helps you feel more relaxed walking down the aisle.

• More Time Together: First looks allow you to spend more of your wedding day side-by-side (and sneak in extra portraits!).

Some Recent Favorite Reactions:

1. Madison + Bryan’s Soft & Sentimental Reveal

This first look moment between Madison and Bryan was soft and tender. They also did a private vow/letter reading with one another, adding event more sweetness to the moment.

2. Alexis + Garrett’s Aisle First Look — happy tears!

When Garrett spotted Alexis walking down the aisle, he had an immediate smile and happy tears in his eyes. Garrett’s love for his bride was so apparent in his reaction as her and her dad walked down the aisle together.

3. tanya + Andrew’s rooftop first look reveal

Tanya and Andrew had a beautiful rooftop first look at The Florida Aquarium, where Tanya walked up and tapped Andrew on his shoulder. Andrew turned around and was in awe of his bride and her gorgeous dress! We love a man that takes a moment to appreciate the dress. These two laughed, smiled, and cheered during their first look moment.

4. First Look fakeout!

Carolyn and Timothy’s wedding had a little surprise! In Carolyn’s place, their daughter (also the flower girl), took the bride’s place for the first look! This was such a playful moment, where everyone had a laugh and Carolyn got to share her first look spotlight with her mini-me. Carolyn was standing off to the side and Timothy then got to have his moment with his bride. Too cute!

5. Sydney + Brandon’s Movie-worthy moment

Sydney and Brandon’s first look was something out of a rom-com. The reveal had Brandon smiling big, paired with a hug that reads all of the sentimental emotions of the day. They smiles, they teared up, and they laughed. This first look moment was not only picture-perfect, but so so tender.

Watch our Behind the Scenes reel of their first look HERE!

Looking for a wedding photographer / videographer / content creator team? ⬇️

Article by Tara Zimmerman from Limelight Photography — passionate about capturing the unscripted, emotional moments that tell your love story in the most genuine and heartfelt way.

Bella + Reed Step Into The Limelight | Sarasota Beach | Sarasota, FL

Bella & Reed’s Surprise Engagement at Sunset 🌅

Some moments are so magical that they feel like they belong in a movie. This engagement session on a Sarasota beach at sunset was one of those moments—filled with love, surprise, and the most breathtaking colors in the sky. And to make it even more fun? I had to go undercover to pull it off!

When the groom-to-be reached out to me about capturing his proposal, he had one request: Make sure she doesn’t suspect a thing! So, I came up with a plan… I would pretend to be a beach resort employee, casually strolling the shoreline while secretly keeping an eye on them. Dressed the part and blending right in, I waited for the big moment, camera in hand.

As they walked along the water, the sky transformed into a stunning canvas of pink, orange, and soft purple hues. Just as the sun kissed the horizon, he dropped to one knee. Her hands flew to her face in shock, and before he even finished asking, she was already nodding through happy tears.

From the raw emotion of the proposal to the joyful laughter that followed, I captured it all—every hug, every tear, and every moment of pure bliss. The colors of the sunset painted the perfect backdrop, making their photos feel almost dreamlike.

After the proposal, we took some more photos as they soaked in the moment. The excitement, the love, and the golden light all came together to create the most magical engagement session.

To the happy couple—thank you for letting me be part of your love story (and for trusting me in my not-so-secret disguise!). Sarasota, you outdid yourself with this sunset. 🌅💍✨

Thinking of planning a beach proposal? Let’s chat and make sure your big moment is captured beautifully! 📸💕

Lead Photographer | Carolyn Place

Shannon + Ashton Step Into The Limelight | Avila Golf & County Club | Tampa, FL

Shannon and Ashton’s wedding was a picture-perfect celebration of love, filled with heartfelt moments and joyful memories that will last a lifetime. The couple exchanged vows in the stunning Harborside Chapel, a beautiful and intimate venue that set the stage for a truly special day. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, they celebrated their love with a ceremony that radiated warmth, emotion, and joy.

The ceremony was followed by a fun and memorable bubble exit, where Shannon and Ashton walked out of the chapel together as husband and wife, greeted by a sea of bubbles and the cheers of their loved ones. It was a lighthearted and magical moment, marking the beginning of their new life together in the most whimsical way.

After the ceremony, the celebration continued at the elegant Avila Golf & Country Club, where the couple and their guests enjoyed an unforgettable reception. With the beautiful views of the golf course as a backdrop, the reception was filled with laughter, dancing, and celebration. Shannon and Ashton chose to have LIVE wedding band too! Bay Kings Band set the perfect tone, playing the couple’s favorite songs and keeping everyone on their feet throughout the night.

The day was a true reflection of Shannon and Ashton’s love story, with every detail thoughtfully planned to make it unique and personal. From their DIY welcome sign to the elegant decor at the reception, it was clear that every moment had been carefully chosen to represent their shared values and vision for their future together.

With a bubble-filled exit, a stunning venue, and the love of their family and friends surrounding them, Shannon and Ashton’s wedding was nothing short of magical – a day they will cherish forever.

Lead Photographer | Steven McCarthy 
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa 

Band | Bay Kings Band
Cake | Alessi Bakery
Caterer | Avila Golf & Country Club
Ceremony Site | Harborside Chapel 
Florist | Northside Florist 
Hair Stylist | Femme Akoi
Make-up Artist | Femme Akoi
Reception Venue | Avila Golf & Country Club

Jackie + Jared Step Into The Limelight | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens | Sarasota, FL

A Sunset Celebration of Love: Jackie & Jared’s Jewish Wedding

Some love stories feel destined, and Jackie and Jared’s is one of them. Introduced by family friends in 2022, their connection was instant rooted in laughter, shared dreams, and a deep love for nature.

On a boat near Lido Beach, with the golden sun melting into the horizon, Jared asked Jackie to be his forever. The waves whispered, the sky blushed, and with a joyful “yes,” their forever began.

Jackie loves Jared’s unwavering authenticity, while Jared adores Jackie’s kindness and the way her eyes light up with love. Together, they are home.

Under a canopy of lush greenery and endless sky, they embraced their Jewish traditions in a breathtaking garden. Surrounded by their loved ones, they vowed to walk life’s path hand in hand, as the sunset blessed their new beginning. From the sacred vows to the joyous whirlwind of traditional dances, every moment was pure romance and bliss. Laughter, love, and music filled the air, weaving memories they will cherish forever.

Jackie and Jared’s wedding was more than a day it was the beginning of a lifetime. A love as deep as the ocean, as endless as the sky, and as warm as the setting sun. To Jackie and Jared may your love always shine as brightly as the day you said “I do.”.

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Jackie Pizio

Caterer |  Michaels on East
Ceremony Site | Marie Selby Gardens 
DJ | Goodley
Event Planner |  Lexi Vennetti
Florist |  Flowers by Fudgie
Hair Stylist | LH Artistry 
Make-up Artist | LH Artistry
Reception Venue | Marie Selby Gardens
Videographer | Earl Speid

Stephanie's Surprise 40th | Yacht Starship | Tampa, FL

Some birthdays are fun. Some are unforgettable. Then there’s Stephanie’s40th birthday, which was straight-up legendary! Picture this: a gorgeous yacht, the shimmering waters of Tampa Bay, and a night filled with laughter, music, dancing, and the kind of memories that last a lifetime.From the moment guests stepped aboard the Yacht Starship, it was clear this wasn’t just any party—it was THE party. The deck was decorated with elegant white flowers, setting a dreamy scene against the twinkling city skyline. And then, there was Stephanie, the star of the night, dazzling in a stunning sparkly dress that made her shine even brighter than the yacht itself.

With music pumping and the sea breeze in the air, the dance floor was never empty. Whether it was classic throwbacks, party anthems, or a little salsa under the stars, everyone was living their best life. And, of course, no birthday bash is complete without a show-stopping cake—and Stephanie’s was as delicious as it was beautiful! Between heartfelt toasts, nonstop laughter, and a whole lot of fun, Stephanie’s 40th was the ultimate celebration of life, love, and friendship. If this milestone birthday was any indication, the next chapter of her life is going to be just as fabulous as she is. Cheers to 40 years of Stephanie’s sparkle—and many more to come! 🎉 ✨ 🚢

Lead Photographer | Carolyn Place
Associate Photographer | Adrian Nguyen