That is the question!

Having a first look or not is one of the most common dilemmas of wedding planning. As an experienced wedding photographer, I’ve seen how both choices can impact the flow and emotion of the day.

So, we’re going to break it down here. There is no pressure– simply insight to help you decide what’s right for YOU on your wedding day.

What is a First Look?

A first look is a private time for the couple to first see each other before the ceremony. It’s intimate, can be emotional, and often one of the most heartfelt moments of the entire day. It is captured by your photographer, so the emotions and excitement can be documented for you to remember vividly.

Why Couples Love the First Look

1. Calms the Nerves

A first look can ease any anxiety or pressure of having all the guests watch you both as you come down the aisle during the ceremony. Some couples say having a first look helps them enjoy the ceremony more fully. There is something special about holding your person, taking a pause together and saying “let’s do this,” as you embark on the official ceremonies.

2. Private Vows/Letters

Often times, couples don’t feel comfortable sharing personal vows or letters in front of all their guests. Doing a first look gives you the chance to exchange your intimate words in private. You can feel more comfortable to cry, laugh and take all the time you need, without eyes on you. From a photographer’s point of view, we usually stay for a couple pictures in the beginning so you can have it documented, but then step away to let you truly have your private moment.

3. Flexibility for Photos

If you have a goal of getting into your reception faster so you can spend time with your loved ones more, doing a first look allows most or even all your portraits to be done before the ceremony. The most popular order of events that couples with me choose is: the first look, followed by couple portraits and bridal party portraits, then saving family portraits for after the ceremony. But each day is customized to your desire, so this is flexible and will be worked out with your photographer.

4. Can See More of Each other the Whole Day

If you’d like to spend more time with your best friend on your wedding day, then having a first look allows you to. Some couples even choose to get ready together, because they want to spend as much time with each other as possible on their big day.

Why Some Couples Skip the First Look

1. Keeping Tradition Alive

Some couples feel strongly about seeing each other for the first time at the altar. It’s a time-honored tradition and can make that walk down the aisle even more powerful.

2. Having to Get Ready Earlier

Choosing to do a first look would mean everyone has to start getting ready earlier in the day. Really, this just means girls because of hair and make up. We all know guys need 10 minutes to be ready!

3. Added Pressure for the Camera

If you feel like it would make you too awkward to have a private moment on camera, and the emotions would be too forced, then skip it.

Bonus First Looks: Parents, Bridesmaids & More

While most people think of a first look as just between the couple, some additional memorable moments happen when you include the people closest to you—like parents, grandparents, or your bridal party.

First Look with a Parent

Whether it’s your father or mother seeing you in your wedding attire for the first time on your big day, this first look can be incredibly moving. It honors the bond you’ve shared with them throughout your life and gives a special space for you both to take it all in, and celebrate the day that is unfolding.

Bridesmaid (or Groomsmen) Reveals

There’s nothing like the excited reaction of your best friends seeing you fully ready. This first look is often full of squeals, hugs and happy tears. It’s a sweet moment for your bridal party to bring the hype, while your photographer captures the joyful moments of you and your squad as you’re almost there!

So… First Look or No First Look?

There’s no right answer—just what’s right for you. If you crave a private, emotional moment and a relaxed timeline, a first look might be perfect. If you’ve always dreamed of that grand aisle reveal, stick with the tradition of not seeing each other.

As your photographer, I’ll help you build a timeline that works beautifully either way. My goal is always the same: to capture your connection, your joy, and your love—in whatever form that takes!