Maybe I should back up? Before we can even answer the question of why do a first look, let’s do a quick explanation of what a first look even is! A first look is an intimate moment where you get to see each other before the ceremony. It happens right after you get in your dress and before any other photos (bridal party, family, etc.) before the ceremony.

So, why might you choose to do this instead of waiting to see each other until you’re walking down the aisle? Me and my husband, as well as many of my couples, have chosen to do a first look and I wanted to share those reasons with you to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you:

Time Alone Together
As a photographer, I typically try to find a private and secluded location when you first see each other so it’s really just the two of you enjoying these moments.

Wedding days feel like a blur and this may be the only time the whole day where you can talk, just the two of you, and let the joy of the commitment you’re making settle in as you take a deep breath together.

This was a big reason why me and my husband chose to do a first look. I also love when couples share more personal vows or gifts with each other during this time - so sweet!

Less Pressure and Fewer Distractions
Seeing each other before the ceremony allows you to relieve the pressure later in the day of trying to squeeze in family photos, romantic portraits and photos with your bridal party all in an hour or so.

With minimal distractions when you first see each other, you can feel more at ease walking down the aisle towards your groom and freely take in the moment.

Some brides worry that walking down the aisle won’t be as powerful after doing a first look, but in my years of professional experience (and being a bride myself!), the moment walking down the aisle is special in and of itself because it’s the moment before you become man and wife.

I remember the moments of me and my husband’s first look as well as walking down the aisle distinctly. They were both incredibly meaningful and unique and I wouldn’t go back and change a thing.

More Time to Enjoy Your Day
The best part of seeing each other before the ceremony is how much it frees you up to truly enjoy the day without trying to squeeze in all your photos after the ceremony.

In the time after your pronounced husband and wife, you can soak in that fact and celebrate with your friends and family without the thought of more photos!

An added benefit is that it helps the time go more smoothly before and after the ceremony for family photos and also provides you the option to enjoy part of cocktail hour with the people who mean the world to you.

Ultimately, the decision of doing a first look is up to you! While the majority of my couples do choose to do a first look and I usually recommend it, it’s more important to me that you’re happy! I don’t ever want you to think that there are hard and fast rules and you can’t just do what makes the most sense for you.

If you’re curious about how the first look fits into the wedding day and photography timeline, drop your email below and I’ll send you a full sample timeline that I use with my couples!