A lot of my couples are torn about whether or not they should do a first look If you’ve been scrolling through wedding blogs or Pinterest boards, you’ve probably seen those sweet, emotional photos of couples seeing each other for the first time before the ceremony. But maybe you’re also torn—do you love the idea of that private, intimate moment, or do you dream of the big aisle reveal in front of all your guests? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen the magic of both, and today I’m sharing the pros and cons so you can decide what feels right for your day.

If you haven't heard of a "First Look" it's when a couple plans their wedding day so they get to see each other privately before the ceremony instead of seeing each other the traditional way when the ceremony takes place. There are some great reasons you might consider working this into your wedding day schedule and we'll talk about those reasons next!

One of the deciding factors for many couples is so they can spend more time together on their special day. Instead of having to wait until late in the day when you do a first look you can see that special someone early in the day. Another great reason to do a first look is so you can spend more time with your guests instead of taking so long for photos. Side note about photos only being in one big chunk after the ceremony when you have to do family group portraits as well as full wedding party photos and then finally doing photos with just the two of you; you may be over having your photo done and stop enjoying the process. I love being able to break up the photos into smaller more enjoyable slices of time so it doesn't seem like such a chore, your face doesn't get tired and your images will have different looks!

Another thing to consider is when you are doing fall weddings, you sometimes may not have much time at all for daylight portraits if you don't do a first look. 

What are some reasons that you may want to keep the traditional format and not see each other before you walk down the aisle?

If you and your family are very traditional and appreciate time honored experience of your fiancé seeing you as you walk down the aisle or for them to see you make your big entrance then not doing a first look is the way to go.

If you worry that you won't get emotional during the big entrance and your emotions won't be there you should definitely wait and not do a first look! For some people it can also lessen the anticipation of being able to see their person and if you want to have that to look forward to it can be a big deal!

One last thing to consider is doing a first look can make the hair and makeup process start earlier as well and if you don't want to start that so early in the day then waiting is the better option for you!

Another variation is doing a "First Touch" where you don't see each other but you get to be together for a few moments and exchange gifts or private vows or a prayer or just talk and be with each other!

From my standpoint, I've seen couples who chose the first look and loved making that a part of their day. It's really a personal choice and many times personality and family dynamics have a big impact on that decision. If you're the kind of person who enjoys hanging out with your people, whether it's family and friends or your special inner circle of your wedding party the first look can help you do that and also get you to the party quicker as well so you can keep the fun going!

If you're a quieter, more traditional couple with family who you see a lot and aren't into the dance floor then I'd recommend not doing a first look as long as the daylight hours allow.

First look photos can have a very intimate and emotional feel to them that you won't get during a ceremony first look with everyone present and sometimes even though it feels emotional for you or your significant other they may not show that emotion so don't expect it or demand it!

Definitely talk with your photographer and planner about the best fit for your personalities, your wishes the timeline, and the light availability on your specific day. There is no right or wrong choice, just the choice that you are happy with!

Want help planning your wedding timeline? I love walking couples through these decisions. Let’s chat about how we can make your day stress-free and unforgettable!