by
Scott Surplice
7 Things You Should Know If Considering a First Look
The First Look has become an increasingly popular tradition in recent years, offering a modern twist on the classic wedding experience. For couples who want to share an intimate moment before the ceremony, or who simply want to make the most of their day, a First Look can be the perfect addition. But if you’re on the fence, you might be wondering if it will dampen that emotional walk down the aisle, or whether the timing makes sense for your schedule.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed countless First Looks and can confidently say it’s a really lovely way to start the day. This moment can add ease, intimacy, and extra time to your wedding day, allowing you to fully experience every part of it without feeling rushed. In this guide, we’ll cover seven things to know about a First Look to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
1. DOES A FIRST LOOK RUIN THAT CEREMONY MOMENT? This is probably the number one question I hear from couples considering a First Look: does it take away from the emotional impact of seeing each other at the ceremony? The answer, from experience, is a resounding no! Many couples worry that seeing each other before the ceremony will dilute that profound moment when they lock eyes down the aisle. However, a First Look actually creates its own special experience—one that’s just as meaningful.
At the ceremony, surrounded by loved ones and immersed in the atmosphere, you’ll still feel all those deeply emotional feelings. Every couple I’ve worked with who had a First Look still found that the moment their eyes met during the ceremony was still just as powerful as they thought it would be. Rather than taking away from the moment, a First Look simply adds another layer of connection to your day.
2. THE FIRST LOOK HELPS EASE THE NERVES. If you’re feeling anxious about walking down the aisle, a First Look can help settle your nerves. Many couples feel nervous and even a little overwhelmed by the weight of the day, especially before the ceremony. When you see your partner for the first time, it can bring a sense of calm, grounding you in the reality of sharing this experience with the person you love most. For some, a First Look is like a deep breath—it releases the tension and nerves, making the rest of the day feel much more relaxed and natural.
3. LOGISTICAL BENEFITS: TIMING AND LIGHT. For weddings later in the afternoon or during winter, there may not be much natural light left after the ceremony. A First Look allows you to capture beautiful, daylight photos without rushing or missing out. Not only does this mean better lighting for your portraits, but it also helps streamline your day’s timeline, so you won’t need to pull away from the celebration after the ceremony to take photos. Many couples love that they can move directly into celebrating with guests, enjoying every moment without worrying about scheduling.
4. IT’S YOUR TIME TOGETHER – ALONE. In the rush of a wedding day, it can be difficult to find quiet, meaningful moments alone with your partner. The First Look offers a window of time just for the two of you—no friends, no family, no photographers in your face. It’s a rare chance to laugh, cry, and soak up the emotions privately, away from the eyes of loved ones. This intimate moment is where I often see the most genuine, unfiltered reactions. It’s something you’ll remember forever, and it gives the rest of the day an extra feeling of connectedness.
5. YOU CAN BE FULLY PRESENT WITH YOUR GUESTS. One of the biggest perks of a First Look is that it gives you the freedom to fully immerse yourself in the post-ceremony celebration. With most of the portraits done beforehand, you can spend more time with friends and family instead of stepping out for couple portraits after the ceremony. A First Look often allows couples to enjoy more cocktail hour time, greet guests, and soak in the excitement with everyone around them, which is especially valuable if you have a tight timeline.
6. HOW A FIRST LOOK AFFECTS THE TIMELINE. When planning a First Look, you’ll need to adjust your prep time, as it’s generally scheduled an hour or so before the ceremony. This might mean getting ready a little earlier, but it often results in a more relaxed timeline overall. Your planner and photographer can work with you to fit the First Look into your schedule, ensuring that it flows seamlessly with the rest of the day. Many couples find that this slight adjustment allows them to feel less rushed and more present, which sets a beautiful tone for the entire day.
7. IT’S STILL ALL ABOUT YOU AND YOUR DAY. Some couples worry that a First Look might feel “too planned” or like it takes away from the spontaneity of the day. But a First Look doesn’t have to feel staged—in fact, it can be one of the most natural, authentic moments of the day. As your photographer, I’m there to guide you to a spot where the lighting and setting are perfect, but the moment itself belongs entirely to you and your partner. A First Look is all about allowing you to experience the emotions of the day with a sense of calm and connection.
FIRST LOOK FAQs
What is a First Look?
A First Look is a private moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time. It’s an intimate, emotionally charged experience that’s usually captured by your photographer, allowing you to treasure those reactions forever.
Does it take away from seeing each other at the ceremony?
No! A First Look creates a moment all its own, but it doesn’t reduce the magic of the ceremony. For many couples, it actually heightens their emotions, making that walk down the aisle even more special.
How long does a First Look take?
You should allow about 20-30 minutes for a First Look. This gives you time to connect with your partner, capture some beautiful photos, and prepare for the ceremony.
Will it affect the wedding day timeline?
Yes, but it often results in a smoother day overall. Adding a First Look means starting prep a bit earlier, but it allows for more relaxed transitions from one part of the day to the next. Your planner and photographer can help create a schedule that ensures everything flows seamlessly.
Is a First Look right for us?
If you want a private, meaningful moment with your partner before the ceremony, or if you’re worried about feeling nervous, a First Look could be perfect. It’s also ideal if you’re getting married later in the day and need to capture daylight photos before the ceremony.
Would it be bad for photos to have a First Look in the middle of the day?
The lighting generally in the middle of the day isn’t the best for photos. However if it needs to happen at this time you’re photographer will find the best location for it, which will most likely involve a shady spot if the sunlight is harsh.
Conclusion
Ultimately, a First Look can be one of the favourite parts of your wedding day. It offers a private, emotional experience that helps ease nerves, enhances your timeline, and adds depth to your story as a couple. Whether you choose a First Look or prefer to save that special moment for the ceremony, it’s all about making the day feel uniquely yours. Embrace what feels right for you, and let your love story unfold in a way that truly reflects who you are as a couple.
