Should You Do a First Look? Let’s Figure Out What Kind of Couple You Are
Oooookay let’s talk about the First Look Dilemma.
Do you break tradition and have a quiet moment together before the ceremony? OR keep it classic and wait ‘til the aisle?
There’s no wrong answer but there is a better fit for you and your day. Let’s figure that out together.
Are You a First Look Couple or a No-First-Look Couple?
Answer these quick questions and see where you land:
Yes First Look:
- Do you get easily overwhelmed or anxious?
- Are you excited for as many couple portraits as possible?
- Do you value a calm moment together before the chaos?
- Do you want more time with your guests post-ceremony?
If you said “yes” to most of these… you might be a first look couple.
No First Look:
- Do you dream about that aisle moment?
- Do you love anticipation and tradition?
- Do you want to experience that walk down the aisle with all eyes on you?
- Do you enjoy doing things the classic way?
Then maybe the no-first-look route is more your style.
First Look: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Calm those pre-ceremony nerves
- Get all your portraits done early (hello, cocktail hour!)
- Share a private, emotional moment without an audience
- Better timeline flexibility
- More time together overall
Cons:
- There’s a moment after the first look where you just kinda go “okay! We saw eachother! Now what do we do?”
- You’ll need to be fully ready earlier in the day
- Some people really want that dramatic aisle reaction, and that’s totally valid
No First Look — Pros and Cons
Pros:
- That “first glance at the altar” moment? Timeless and iconic
- Keeps tradition alive if that matters to you
- Can build up emotional anticipation in a big way
- Great if you’re having an earlier ceremony
Cons:
- You’ll need to cram all portraits into cocktail hour
- Less alone time on your day
- Timeline might feel a bit tighter or rushed
Real Talk from Me (Your Favorite Photographer With Opinions)
Listen, I’ve photographed both kinds of couples. Neither one is better, they’re just different! It all comes down to how you want to feel.
If having a moment to breathe together sounds like heaven, a first look could be your saving grace. If you’re all about that aisle moment and want to keep the day traditional and emotional, skip it.
The only thing that matters is doing what actually feels right to you. Not what your planner says. Not what your cousin says. Not what some wedding magazine says.
TL;DR: My Honest Advice
- Pick a first look if: You’re anxious, timeline-sensitive, or want more time together and peace.
- Skip it if: You’re sentimental, love tradition, or you’re dreaming of That Aisle Moment™.
And if you still don’t know? I’m happy to talk through your timeline and help you decide. I gotchu.
Click here to get in touch!
