What Is a First Look?

A First Look is a private (or semi-private) moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony. It’s typically captured by your photographer and can be as intimate or styled as you like.

The Pros of Doing a First Look

1. More Emotional (and Candid) Photos: Without the pressure of hundreds of eyes, couples often show more genuine emotion during a first look. You’ll get teary-eyed, joyful, laugh-cry photos that feel authentically you.

2. Calms the Nerves: Seeing your partner before the ceremony can be grounding. Couples often say the anxiety melts away the moment they’re together.

3. More Time Together: Your wedding day goes by so fast. A first look gives you bonus time with the person you love most.

4. Smoother Timeline: Doing a first look means portraits and bridal party photos can happen before the ceremony—freeing up cocktail hour for fun instead of photos.

5. Beautiful Private Moment: This may be the only time you’re alone all day. Just the two of you—no guests, no officiants—soak it in.

The Cons of Doing a First Look

1. It Breaks Tradition: If you’ve always dreamed of locking eyes at the altar for the first time, a first look might not feel right—and that’s okay.

2. You’ll Need to Start Getting Ready Earlier: To make time for the first look and photos, you may need an earlier hair and makeup call time.

3. It Can Feel “Staged”: Some couples worry it might feel too orchestrated. (Though a great photographer knows how to make it feel real and natural.)

4. You’ll Need to Stay Photo-Ready Longer: Depending on your schedule, you might need touch-ups before the reception to keep your look fresh.

So… Should You Do a First Look?

There’s no right or wrong answer—just what feels right for the two of you. Whether you meet under the trees before the ceremony or lock eyes at the altar, it’s going to be magical.