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Pros and Cons of a First Look on Your Wedding Day: Is it Right for You?

  • Brian Marsh
  • May 21, 2020
  • 1 min read

Updated: Apr 11

Bride in white gown touches groom's shoulder from behind during a first look on their wedding day. Groom in blue suit smiles against a red brick wall backdrop. Urban setting.

What the heck is a first look?

First looks are an emerging trend in weddings that suits emotive couples who prefer non-traditional timelines. So, what exactly is a first look? In a traditional Western wedding, the couple first sees each other at the altar in their stunning formal attire. However, with a first look, couples share this moment privately before the ceremony. This private setting creates a special, emotional, and intimate moment that is free of distractions.


Bride in white dress stands in doorway smiling, groom in black suit stands in foreground. Rustic stone building and plants in background.

Is a first look right for you?

A first look isn’t right for everyone. If you don’t wear your heart on your sleeve, then it might not be the best fit for you. And that’s okay! It’s not for everyone. But for everyone else? First looks offer a lot.

  • It is a more private, intimate moment shared between you and your partner without a whole audience.

  • Especially for expressive couples, the images from this moment are incredibly beautiful. As a photographer, I have more freedom to select a stunning setting at the venue and ensure beautiful lighting to deliver the highest quality, cinematic moments.

  • When you see each other early in the day, other moments like posed family photos can happen earlier as well. This gives more flexibility in your time frame so you can enjoy your cocktail hour!

  • If you’re shy, you don’t have to ooze all those feelings and cry all those happy tears in front of your guests.


    Bride and groom laughing outdoors in a field with autumn trees. Bride in white dress and veil, groom in suit with orange tie. Joyful mood.

How to prepare for a first look?

Communicate to me that you’d like one and we will make sure to carve time out for it. You should reserve about an hour after getting ready.

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