One of the most common questions we receive from couples is whether they should do a first look on their wedding day. While the decision is entirely up to you, we’d love to share our insights as professional photographers who have witnessed countless weddings and the impact of this choice on the flow of the day.

Why We’re Big Fans of the First Look

1. You’ll Still Get “That Moment”

A big reason couples hesitate to do a first look is the fear of missing out on the emotional impact of seeing each other for the first time as you walk down the aisle. But trust us, that moment will still be incredibly special. In fact, seeing your partner surrounded by the love of friends and family often adds an extra layer of emotion. Plus, you can keep a little surprise for the aisle by waiting to wear your veil until the ceremony. 🥰

2. It’s a Stress-Free Choice

One of the biggest benefits of a first look is how it reduces stress. By getting most of your photos done beforehand, you can actually enjoy your cocktail hour with your guests, rather than spending it taking pictures. This is also an ideal time to get those guest photos out of the way so that when the reception begins, you can fully immerse yourself in the celebration without any additional obligations.

3. It Makes Logistical Sense

Opting for a first look allows your photographer to capture your bridal party, family, and couple portraits before the ceremony even begins. This means you won’t have to cram all those important photos into the short time between the ceremony and reception. Instead, you’ll have more breathing room and less stress. If you prefer to wait until the ceremony for that big reveal, we strongly recommend extending your cocktail hour to 1.5 hours. This extra time helps ensure that everything gets done without the pressure of rushing.

4. It’s a More Intimate Experience

First looks tend to be more emotional and intimate than the traditional reveal. Without the eyes of your guests on you, it’s just the two of you, creating a private and tender moment. Many of our couples take this opportunity to exchange letters, gifts, or even read their vows, making it one of the most memorable parts of their day.

What We’ve Seen Over the Years

In our 7 years as wedding photographers, we’ve noticed that couples who wait until after the ceremony for photos often find the cocktail hour stressful. Only a few have managed to stay relaxed during this time, and those were the ones who extended their cocktail hour to 1.5 hours to allow for a more leisurely pace. It’s something we encourage all our couples to consider if they’re set on waiting until after the ceremony for photos.

Final Thoughts: It’s Your Day

At the end of the day, this is your wedding, and your choices should reflect what’s most meaningful to you. We’re here to share our professional insights, but the final decision is yours. No matter what you choose, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

If you’re still unsure or have any questions, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help!

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