One of the most frequently asked questions I get from couples is: “Should we do a first look?”
As your photographer—and someone who has witnessed countless love stories unfold—I want to help you make the choice that feels right for you. Whether you go for the full reveal or hold out until the walk down the aisle, there’s no wrong answer. But here’s what I’ve seen, through the lens and in real life.
✨ The Pros of a First Look
1. An Intimate, Unfiltered Moment Together
A first look carves out a rare, quiet pocket of time for just the two of you. It’s emotional, real, and completely yours—away from the eyes of guests and the buzz of the ceremony. You get to feel all the feelings, say what’s on your heart, and soak in the moment together without distractions.
2. Calms Pre-Ceremony Jitters
I can’t tell you how many couples have breathed a visible sigh of relief after their first look. Nerves melt away the moment you see your person. It’s grounding and calming—almost like an emotional reset before the big celebration kicks off.
3. More Flexibility for Photos
When you do a first look, we can knock out a ton of photos earlier in the day. That means more time for dreamy couple portraits, full wedding party photos, and even some family group shots before the ceremony. You’ll have more light to work with and more freedom to enjoy your cocktail hour afterward.
4. Doesn’t Take Away from the Aisle Moment
Here’s the thing: seeing each other before the ceremony doesn’t diminish that walk-down-the-aisle moment—it just adds another layer to your story. That moment is still powerful, emotional, and one-of-a-kind. You’re walking toward forever—and nothing can take away from that. Pro tip – leave the veil and flowers for this moment.
5. A Private Space for Personal Vows
First looks are the perfect time to exchange private vows if that’s something you want. You can speak freely, laugh, cry, and be vulnerable without an audience. It makes for an incredibly meaningful addition to your wedding day.
🤍 The Cons of a First Look (and Alternatives!)
While I’m a big fan of first looks, I completely understand why some couples choose to wait. Here are a few things to consider:
1. Less Traditional (and That Matters to Some)
If you’re dreaming of that classic moment where your partner sees you for the first time as you walk down the aisle, a first look might not be for you. Holding out can make that entrance feel even more dramatic and emotional.
2. Requires an Earlier Start Time
To fit in a first look and portraits before the ceremony, you’ll likely need to start getting ready earlier in the day. That means hair, makeup, and all the prep will need to be scheduled with plenty of buffer time—especially if you’re planning an evening wedding.
3. Weather or Lighting Could Shift Your Timeline
Depending on the season and ceremony time, lighting for a first look might be harsh midday or subject to unpredictable weather. Sometimes this can mean adjusting plans to keep your photos soft, flattering, and dreamy.
4. It’s Not Always the Right Emotional Fit
Some couples genuinely want to save that first moment of connection for the ceremony—and that’s beautiful too. If you know seeing each other beforehand might actually add to your nerves rather than relieve them, trust that intuition.
🕊️ Want a Compromise? Try a First Touch.
A sweet alternative is a first touch—standing back-to-back or around a corner, holding hands, praying together, or even exchanging private vows without seeing each other. It still gives you that emotional connection and intentional pause, while keeping the “no peeking” vibe intact.
Final Thoughts from Behind the Lens
At the end of the day, your wedding should reflect you. First look or no look, what matters most is that you feel comfortable, connected, and fully present. I’m here to help you craft a timeline that supports your vision—and to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments, whichever path you choose.
