One of the biggest decisions you’ll make while planning your wedding day has nothing to do with flowers or table settings—it’s deciding whether you want to have a first look before the ceremony or save that special moment for walking down the aisle.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve photographed both, and I can honestly say there isn’t a “right” choice. The best option is the one that feels most like you. Every couple is different, and both choices create beautiful memories and raw emotion. I promise…he’ll cry either way! (;
If you aren’t sure what to do, here’s what to consider:
What is a first look?
A first look is a private moment before the ceremony where you and your partner see each other for the first time. It’s typically just the two of you (plus your photographer and videographer quietly documenting everything from a distance).
This gives you a chance to slow down, take each other in, exchange a few words, and soak up the excitement before the day really begins. Some couples choose to do their vows during this time so it’s a little more private and not as much stage fright. If that’s the case, they just exchange traditional vows during the actual ceremony.
Pros of a first look
A private, intimate moment
Wedding days fly by, and I personally want to spend as much time as possible with my partner. Why wait until the ceremony to see your person when you can have some private, uninterrupted time before? A lot of couples say it’s one of the calmest moments the entire day because it’s quiet, calm, and you get to enjoy each other’s company before the chaos continues.
Helps calm the nerves
If you’re feeling anxious, seeing your partner beforehand can be incredibly grounding. After all…that’s who your marrying! Many couples feel much more relaxed during the ceremony afterward.
More time for portraits
One of the biggest advantages from a photography standpoint is that we can complete most of your portraits before the ceremony and have more time to party afterwards! This often includes:
- Couple portraits
- Wedding party photos
- Family photos
That means you get to enjoy more of cocktail hour instead of spending the entire time taking pictures. And if you get to enjoy more of cocktail hour mingling with guests…you get to spend the rest of the evening on the dance floor!
A more relaxed timeline
Since many photos are finished before the ceremony, the afternoon feels less rushed and allows for more flexibility if the day runs behind schedule. Wiggle room is always a must!
What are the cons of a first look?
Some couples dream of seeing each other for the first time when one partner walks down the aisle. Some believe doing a first look ruins the emotion felt in that moment.
Doing a first look also typically means a majority of photos will be done prior to the ceremony, which means everyone needs to be ready earlier in the day.
Waiting until the ceremony
This is the more traditional option that many couples still love! The anticipation builds all morning, and your first glimpse of each other happens as one of you walks down the aisle surrounded by your closest loved ones.
There’s something incredible and special about waiting for that moment!
Pros of waiting until the ceremony
A classic, timeless experience
If you’ve always pictured locking eyes as the ceremony begins, this option creates that unforgettable moment. All the anticipation builds up to this, and the tears most definitely start flowing!
An emotional ceremony entrance
There’s something special about everyone witnessing your reactions together. It often creates some of the most heartfelt images of the entire day.
More anticipation
Many couples enjoy keeping the excitement building until the ceremony begins!
What are the cons of waiting til the ceremony?
Without a first look, nearly all portraits happen after the ceremony.
Depending on your timeline, that can mean:
- Less time at cocktail hour mingling with guests
- A tighter photography schedule
- More pressure if the ceremony starts late
- Less flexibility before sunset
This doesn’t mean your photos will be any less beautiful—it just requires a carefully planned timeline! This is why working closely with your photographer on a timeline is so important!
What about the photos?
One question I hear all the time is:
“Will my photos be better if we do a first look?”
No, silly! Your photos will be beautiful regardless of when they’re taken. The beauty comes from connection, great lighting, and thoughtful planning…not whether you see each other before the ceremony.
I’ve photographed incredible wedding days with first looks and equally emotional weddings where couples waited until the aisle. The biggest difference is the feeling of the day. Doing a first look typically makes it feel less rushed and gives the couple a little more time to simply exist and soak it all in.
Still can’t decide?
Ask yourselves a few questions:
- Do we want a quiet, private moment together before the ceremony?
- Is it important to attend most of cocktail hour?
- Have we always dreamed about the aisle reveal?
- Do we tend to feel calmer and less anxious when we’re together?
- Would we rather have a relaxed timeline or keep the tradition?
Hopefully your answers help make the decision much clearer!
My Advice as a Wedding Photographer
After photographing many weddings, I’ve learned that there isn’t a wrong choice!
If you’re hoping for a relaxed timeline, more time with your guests, and a quiet moment together, a first look is a wonderful option.
If you’ve always imagined your first look happening at the ceremony and that tradition feels important to you, then absolutely wait for the aisle. The anticipation and emotion are just as unforgettable! Especially sharing that moment with all your guests.
At the end of the day, your wedding should reflect your relationship—not anyone else’s expectations.
FEATURED WEDDING:
Photographer and videographer : Kai Photo and Film
Hair and makeup: Aimee Beauty Co.
Planning/coordinating: Kalos Event Planning
Dress: Lily’s Bridal Outlet
Venue: Riverside Hotel Fort Lauderdale
Florals: Fiore d’Amore Floral Boutique
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