One of the biggest wedding day decisions I see couples struggling with is... "Do we want to do a first look?" And honestly? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some couples can’t imagine not seeing each other before the ceremony, while others dream of that emotional aisle moment. As a photographer, my job is to present you with the pros and cons and help you make the decision that's right for YOU!

What is a First Look?


A first look is a private (or semi-private) moment where you and your partner see each other for the first time before the ceremony. It’s usually just the two of you (and me hanging back quietly with my camera), and it’s all about soaking in the moment without 200 pairs of eyes on you. Some couples even opt to say their vows during this time and skip the emotional vow reading at the ceremony.

Pros of Doing a First Look

1. You Get Extra Time Together

Your wedding day will fly by, and a first look lets you spend more of it with the person you’re marrying. Instead of waiting until the ceremony, you get a quiet, emotional moment just for you two.


2. More Photos, Less Stress

Doing a first look means we can knock out most of your couple portraits—and sometimes even wedding party and family photos—before the ceremony. That way, after you say “I do,” you can actually enjoy cocktail hour (and those cute appetizers you picked out).


3. You’ll Feel Calmer Walking Down the Aisle

Seeing each other before the ceremony can help settle those pre-ceremony nerves. Many of my couples say they feel so much more relaxed after their first look, which means you’ll be glowing in all your photos.


Cons of Doing a First Look

1. You’re Dreaming of That Aisle Moment

If you’ve always pictured your partner tearing up as you walk down the aisle for the very first time, stick with tradition! That anticipation can make for some seriously powerful ceremony photos.


2. You’re Having a Morning or Early Afternoon Ceremony

If you’re getting married earlier in the day, you might not have time for a first look before the ceremony and that’s totally fine. We’ll build a timeline that still gives you stunning portraits.


3. You Just Don’t Want One

At the end of the day, it’s your wedding. If a first look doesn’t feel right, skip it! Your photos will still be amazing because you’ll be fully present in the moments that matter most.


My Take as Your Photographer


I love first looks, but I also love when couples do whatever feels most true to them. The most important thing? Build your wedding timeline around how you want to feel on your day. Whether that means sharing a private first look, private first touch, or locking eyes for the first time at the altar.