If you’re thinking about doing a first look, you’re not alone!
Let’s go through the pros and cons of having a first look.
If you’re wondering…
A first look is a private reveal between the couple before the ceremony. One person will stand and wait with their back turned and the other will walk up to them and when they turn around, bam! Happy tears and lots of hugs.
PROS:
You’ll actually make it to cocktail hour. With a full first look, we can move through couple portraits, wedding party photos, and family formals before the reception even begins, which means you’re free to eat the appetizers you’ve been thinking about for months and actually spend time mingling and socializing with your guests.
It’s just the two of you. If the idea of seeing your person for the first time and immediately crying in front of 120 people sounds like your personal nightmare, a first look is for you. It’s quiet, unhurried, and completely private. You get a real moment together before the day takes over. You can even opt to share private vows during your first look and exchange standard ones in front of guests.
More time means better portraits. If couple photos are a priority, a first look delivers. More time, more locations, and an emotional openness that tends to produce the most genuine images of the day.
The timeline is relaxed. Knowing that formals are handled early takes an enormous amount of pressure off the rest of the day. Everything flows more smoothly, and you actually get to be present for it.
CONS:
Earlier light isn’t always the best light. Portraits earlier in the day are absolutely beautiful – but the closer they happen to golden hour, the more magical the quality of light. Even with a first look, I always recommend carving out 15 minutes during dinner for a quick golden hour session. It’s worth it every time.
It may add time to your coverage. A first look typically adds 30 minutes for couple portraits alone, or a full 90 minutes when you factor in family and wedding party formals. It’s worth talking through with your photographer when building your timeline and reviewing what’s included in your collection. For most couples doing a full first look, 8-9 hours of coverage fits beautifully.
Every wedding day is different, and there’s no universally right answer here. But even a 30-minute first look can meaningfully change the feel of your day – more photos, less stress, and a quieter moment with your person before everything begins.
Still weighing it? Let’s talk through what makes sense for you.
