Should you do a wedding day first look?

I know I’m giving it away rather quickly, but in short the answer to this blog title is, yes.

Most of the time. Let me explain.

Before we go too far, what is a first look? Maybe you’re not familiar with this term, but don’t worry, it’s very simple. Instead of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony, a couple can choose to do a “first look” where they see each other more privately beforehand.

I’ve been photographing wedding for more than 5 years full-time, with over 130 couples around the Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland area, including a few outside in LA, New Jersey, and other locations. I’ve seen countless wedding timelines, I’ve been a part of many wedding traditions, and I can confidently say that I love first looks and I think they are a huge benefit to your wedding day! However there are rare occasions where they won’t make sense for your day. Let’s start off with four reasons to do a first look, followed by four reasons NOT to do a first look.

1) Share a moment together

One of my absolute favorite reasons for having first looks is that I have seen time and time again how special it can be for the couple. Going to a beautiful, private spot around your venue and seeing each other for the first time can be an incredibly emotional and beautiful time. Often it’s a chance for the couple to share their own private vows with each other, in addition to the more formal vows during the ceremony. I’ll be off just to the side, silently capturing the joy and the reaction :)

2) Family photos before the ceremony

The biggest practical benefit of having a first look is that now that you’ve seen each other you can then do all your family bridal party photos before the ceremony! How many times have you been at a wedding, waiting and waiting for the couple to return so the reception can finally start. On a more traditional timeline the family and bridal party photos would have to be after the ceremony, during the cocktail hour. With a first look you’re able to bank that time and get things done earlier.

3) Be present at your cocktail hour

Banking that time means you’ll have the ability to enjoy your cocktail hour! Instead of using all of that time for photos, maybe you take some or all of it to enjoy your cocktail. Doing a first look will give you the freedom to do more later and spend time with your family and friends.

4) Additional time for photos

Not up for the cocktail? Would you rather use that time for extra couples photos? Maybe it’s the most beautiful time of day at the venue you’ve always dreamed about. Doing a first look will give you extra time for couples photos before the reception should you like to use the time that way.

Now I’ll freely admit that first looks are not for everyone. There are reasons not to do them. My wife and I actually didn’t have one at our wedding! Here are my top reasons NOT to do a first look on your wedding day.

1) Seeing each other at the ceremony

For my wife and I, we loved the traditional idea of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony. My first time seeing my wife in her stunning wedding dress was as she walked down the aisle to marry me. It can be a very special and poignant moment, one of my favorite to capture. Talk with your spouse-to-be to see what is best for you.

2) Your wedding tradition

Some cultural traditions simple don’t work well with first looks. Indian weddings for example have a number of events leading up to the ceremony that are for just the bride or groom. Some have a very special time during the ceremony where a veil between the couple is removed. If your tradition doesn’t call for a first look, don’t force it.

3) Your wedding ceremony is early in the day

Are you having a late morning or early afternoon wedding ceremony? A first look might not fit well depending on your day. Work with your planner and your photographer to make sure you have the time for a first look, you don’t want to feel rushed on one of the biggest days of your life so far!

4) You’d rather be married in your couples photos

For some, it’s special when looking back at their wedding photos to know that they were actually married in them. Sure it’s a small point, but if it’s something you’ll worry about, then a first look may not be for you.

Did this bring up any further questions? Drop a comment below or fill out the contact form to go deeper! I’m happy to provide any help in planning your wedding day.