One of the many decisions you’ll make as you plan your wedding is whether or not to have a “first look” with your partner before the ceremony. This moment, where the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day in a private setting before the walk down the aisle, has become increasingly popular in recent years. But what exactly is a first look, and why might it be the right choice for you? Let’s explore the benefits and considerations of incorporating a first look into your wedding day.

What is a First Look?

A first look is a planned moment where the couple sees each other in their wedding attire before the ceremony begins. Unlike the traditional approach, where the first sight of each other happens at the altar, the first look takes place in a more private setting, often with just the photographer and videographer present. This intimate moment is captured on camera, allowing you to have a special, emotional experience before the day’s events fully kick off.

The Benefits of a First Look

1. An Intimate Moment Together

Weddings are often a whirlwind of activity, and it can be challenging to find time alone with your partner amidst all the excitement. A first look gives you the opportunity to share an intimate moment together before the ceremony, allowing you to connect and soak in the significance of the day. Many couples find that this private time helps to calm their nerves and set a positive tone for the rest of the celebration.

2. Capturing Genuine Reactions

A first look allows your photographer to capture the raw, genuine emotions of seeing each other for the first time. Without the pressure of being in front of all your guests, you can freely express your feelings, whether it’s tears, laughter, or joyful surprise. These photos often become some of the most cherished images from the day, reflecting the deep connection and love you share.

"As a wedding photographer for over 15 years, I’ve seen the first look become increasingly popular—and for good reason! A first look offers incredible benefits: it provides more flexibility in the timeline, creates a private moment just for the two of you, reduces stress, and allows for more photo opportunities. It also gives us more time to capture the beautiful details your planner and vendors have worked so hard on.

Let me reassure you, walking down the aisle is still a deeply significant and emotional moment. A first look doesn’t take away from that; rather, it enriches the experience and adds another cherished memory. By including a first look, you can enjoy more creative, relaxed photos without the pressure of a post-ceremony rush. Plus, getting key photos done earlier means you can join the evening festivities and celebrate with your loved ones even sooner!" —Ashlee Brooke, Ashlee Brooke Photography

3. More Time for Photos

One of the most significant advantages of a first look is the additional time it frees up for photos. By taking your couple’s portraits before the ceremony, you can enjoy more time with your guests during the cocktail hour and reception. This also allows for a more relaxed photo session, without the rush to complete all the necessary shots after the ceremony.

4. Enhancing the Wedding Day Timeline

Having a first look can greatly improve the flow of your wedding day. By getting the couple’s photos, as well as some of the wedding party and family photos, done before the ceremony, you can streamline the schedule and reduce the time spent taking photos between the ceremony and reception. This means less waiting time for your guests and a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

“I love when couples do a first look because it gives me time to create stunning portraits in a stress free and relaxed environment.” —Pepper Nix, Pepper Nix Photography

5. Reducing Pre-Ceremony Nerves

Many couples experience jitters or anxiety leading up to the ceremony. A first look can help to alleviate some of these nerves by allowing you to see and connect with your partner beforehand. This shared moment can bring a sense of calm and reassurance, helping you to feel more relaxed and ready to walk down the aisle.

6. Exchanging Personal Vows

Many couples who opt for a first look also choose to use this intimate moment to exchange personal vows. Reading your vows privately allows you to express your feelings and promises without the pressure of an audience. It creates a deeply personal and emotional experience where you can truly connect with each other before the excitement of the ceremony begins. This private exchange can feel more meaningful for couples who want to savor their commitment in a quiet and personal setting, adding an extra layer of significance to their wedding day.

Addressing Concerns About Tradition

Some couples worry that a first look might diminish the impact of seeing each other at the altar. However, many who choose to do a first look report that it doesn’t take away from the emotional significance of the ceremony itself. In fact, the ceremony can feel even more meaningful, as you’ve already shared an intimate moment together and are now fully present and focused as you make your vows.

A first look on your wedding day gives you and your partner a unique, quiet moment together before the ceremony — tucked away from the excitement of it all. This time alone lets you soak in the emotions, leading to truly beautiful and natural photos. Adding a first look to your day makes everything feel more laid-back and easygoing. It helps you avoid feeling rushed and gives you both a chance to enjoy the day in a more relaxed, thoughtful way, resulting in stunning photos. —Tiffany Von, Tiffany Von Photography

Oftentimes, people think that a first look is intended to accommodate their wedding day schedule, and that it's function is purely that - a practical option to help the flow of the day. And while it does provide more time for varying events, I always share with my couples that the best part of having a first look is that they get to truly be present and fully enjoy that first moment of seeing each other. Without the setting of their ceremony, they're allotted time and space to feel their feelings and take advantage of one of the few moments on the day that gives them pause. If this is something that resonates with anyone planning their wedding, I'd suggest leaning into the special, private space a first look provides. —Megan Robinson, Megan Robinson Photography

At Michelle Leo Events, we highly recommend considering a first look for all of the positive impacts it has on your wedding day. Not only does it enhance the overall timeline, allowing for a smoother flow of events, but it also eliminates much of the logistical and emotional stress that can arise on the big day. A first look provides you with a beautiful, private moment to connect with your partner, helping to set the tone for the incredible day ahead. Ultimately, whether or not to have a first look is a personal choice, but we’ve found that many couples cherish the experience and the memories it creates.

If you’re undecided about whether a first look is right for you, reach out! We’d be happy to discuss it further and help you make a decision that feels best for your wedding day.