To First Look, or Not to First Look...

That’s a question I hear all the time as a wedding photographer. The answer? It depends on you! Let’s break it down.

First Look with Kaitlyn & Derek at The Lodge at Mountain Springs Lake, July 26, 2024

One of the biggest decisions couples face when planning their wedding day timeline is whether to do a First Look - that private moment before the ceremony where you see each other for the first time - or stick with tradition and wait for the aisle moment. As a photographer, I’ve seen both approaches work beautifully, and I’m here to help you decide what feels right for you.

Here's a little insight on both options:

The Perks of a First Look

A Private, Intimate Moment – Weddings can be a whirlwind, and a First Look gives you a chance to slow down and just be together before the day really gets going.

More Photos, Less Rush – With a First Look, we can capture wedding party, family and couple portraits before the ceremony, giving you extra time to enjoy cocktail hour. Then when golden hour rolls around, we can get extras portraits for a quick 10 minutes!

Eases Nerves – If you’re someone who feels anxious about all eyes on you, seeing your person beforehand can be grounding and make the walk down the aisle feel even more exciting instead of nerve-wracking.

Better Lighting Options – Depending on your ceremony time and the time of year, a First Look can offer the best natural light for portraits instead of squeezing everything in at sunset or after dark.

More Time to Celebrate – Getting photos done early means you actually get to enjoy cocktail hour instead of spending it taking portraits. More time with guests = more fun!

You Might Skip It If...

You Love Tradition – There’s something undeniably special about the aisle moment. The build-up, the anticipation, the emotions - it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

You’re Okay with a Tighter Photo Timeline – If you don’t mind dedicating most of cocktail hour to portraits, waiting until after the ceremony works just fine. Just know that you might have to step away for sunset photos later, too.

You Want Reactions from Everyone – If you dream of that dramatic turn and gasp from your partner and your guests, then saving the first look for the aisle may be the way to go.

Your Ceremony is Earlier in the Day – Some ceremonies, especially at a church, happen at 1pm instead of 5pm. In this case, there's plenty of time after ceremony, before reception, to take care of all the family, wedding party, and couple portraits.

Kayla & Daniel chose traditional for their wedding on October 15, 2024. Their ceremony was at 1pm, and their cocktail hour began at 5:30pm, leaving plenty of time in between for portraits.

How It Affects Your Wedding Day Timeline

• With a First Look: Your timeline is a little more relaxed, with couple, family & wedding party photos before the ceremony, freeing up time for mingling and enjoying the reception.

• Without a First Look: Photos happen during cocktail hour, which means you’ll have less time with guests, but you’ll get that classic, emotional aisle moment.

Final Thoughts

There’s no right or wrong choice - just what feels right for you! If you’re still unsure, let’s chat about your timeline, venue, and what’s most important to you. No matter what you decide, I’ll be there to capture all the emotions and make sure your photos reflect the magic of your day.

So… First Look or no First Look? Either way, it’s going to be beautiful. 💛

What is your preference?

• First Look!
• Traditional, at the alter