Should You Do a First Look For Your Wedding?

ADVICE FROM A NEW ENGLAND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

There are so many decisions you need to make for your wedding day when it comes to photos and one of them is answering the big question… do you do a first look? (My answer is yes lol)

But let’s be real… that’s sort of a loaded question. There are many things to consider when it comes to deciding if you want to do a first look. You’d think it would be an easy decision as to whether you want to wait to see your future life partner for the first time at the ceremony or beforehand. But you’re going to want to consider these things before you make the decision.

Reasons to go with a first look:

A first look planned in your timeline allows for more breathing room for the rest of the day for photos.

This is the main reason why I suggest first looks to my couples – You’ll be able to get couples photos earlier in the day which allows for MORE beautiful pictures of just you two. Additionally, this will allow for full wedding party photos, full family photos, etc. in the earlier part of the day and allows for more wiggle room/less rushing to get all of the important photos done. And usually, having a first look allows for more time later (during cocktail hour) for even more photo opportunities for you and your partner. Overall, it gives a more customizable and flexible day!

Get rid of any nerves or jitters of seeing each other for the first time.

Getting this over with before the ceremony allows you to be more present with the love of your life throughout the rest of the day. And from my experience… there will still be emotions and tears walking down the aisle regardless of if you’ve seen each other before or not. I promise!

Have more quality time with the person you’re marrying.

For a lot of my couples, their wedding is about THEM and their love for each other. So for that reason, they choose every chance they can get to be with their future life partner and have private moments with each other.  This is a perfect opportunity to have just that before the ceremony.

Reasons to *not* go with a first look:

It *could* water down the experience of walking down the aisle.

I know I mentioned above that it usually doesn’t change any emotions whether you see each other first or not, but some couples do truly believe that it would be affected. Those that choose to go with this more traditional route prefer to feel the nerves and adrenaline when walking down the aisle and that is perfectly okay! It’s totally up to you!

Planning a first look could take time away from getting ready photos.

Depending on your budget and timeline, you may not have enough time before the ceremony to capture these moments along with a first look. A first look takes about 15-20 minutes including the photos taken afterward, so if documenting that part of the day is important to you, this may be something to consider.

Your first look location may not be private enough for you.

Depending on your venue setup, the location of a first look may not work for you. There may not be many private areas of the venue to have this, which may lead to many onlookers. This moment is meant to be a private moment between the couple and having people watching may sour the experience.

Still want some sort of “first” experience but don’t want to commit to a first look with your partner? Here are other “first” options:

First Touch:

I’ve seen this cropping up a lot more recently! A first touch is perfect for couples wanting to share an intimate and emotional moment with each other but not wanting to break the tradition of not seeing each other before the ceremony. Some couples pray together, while others just share a few words or thoughts. Typically, it’s done in a doorway or in a corner where one can’t see the other and of course, it’s in a private part of the venue.

First Look with Loved Ones:

Just because you don’t want to do a first look with your partner, you can still have a first look! Typically, I’ve seen first looks with Bridesmaids/Wedding Party, their Mom or Dad (or both) or another loved one. (Note: A first look with your partner is a great move for efficiency in your day, while a first look with a separate loved one is a great opportunity for photos, but ultimately may slow down a tight timeline.) These photos without a doubt are always precious and create beautiful and emotional images. It’s a really lovely thing to add to your gallery and you’ll have these moments captured forever!

At the end of the day, this decision is completely up to you and your partner, just as any decision should be! No one other than you two can know what’s right because ultimately, this day is solely about YOU and your LOVE. I hope these pros and cons help you in making this decision. Congratulations on your engagement, good luck, and have fun with your wedding planning!

Also, if you are curious about my opinion on what I would recommend… keep reading!

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If it’s not obvious already… I’m a big advocate of the first look. First looks create the most flexible of timelines which is ideal as a wedding photographer. It is my mission to get the most images of you and your loved ones during your day, and this just maximizes the opportunities for those photos! My main focus as your photographer is to celebrate and prioritize you, your partner, and document your love.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions! Feel free to contact me below.