In recent years, the idea of choosing a first look for your wedding day has become more and more popular, and with good reason. While it may stray from certain wedding traditions, we’re here to say: we’re big fans of this modern first look moment.

For many couples, it ends up being one of the best decisions they make for their wedding day timeline, photography, and overall experience. Whether you’re considering a private moment before your wedding ceremony or still leaning toward the traditional first look — seeing one another for the first time at the altar — this blog post walks you through some of the biggest benefits of sharing a first look.

a GROUNDED AND intentional start to the day

There’s no doubt that wedding mornings can feel like a blur of hair and makeup, wedding attire details, and a flurry of activity with your bridal party and closest friends. A first look creates a great opportunity to pause and take a deep breath together before the momentum of the day sweeps you up.

Whether you choose a perfect location tucked away from the hustle and bustle or a scenic spot with beautiful natural light, this intimate moment allows you to connect without all eyes on you. It’s a special time to ground yourselves, calm the nerves, and remember what it’s really all about — the two of you, and your love story.

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A FIRST LOOK MEANS MORE TIME SPENT TOGETHER

Let’s be honest — your wedding day goes by just as fast as everyone says. Choosing a first look gives you that extra amount of time with your partner that you simply wouldn’t get if you wait until the actual ceremony. For many couples, it’s the only private moment they get all day. It also opens up your timeline in major ways.

You can take wedding party photos, family portraits, and even start your couple portraits early, meaning there’s less time spent on formal photos after the ceremony — and more time for celebrating during cocktail hour. Your photography and video team will be able to capture your emotional moment from every angle, ensuring that this special photo opportunity is beautifully documented for years to come.

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IT ADDS TO HOW SPECIAL YOUR CEREMONY IS

One of the biggest hesitations we hear is: “Won’t a first look take away from the emotion of seeing each other at the altar?”. This is absolutely a valid question, but in our experience — and in so much of the wedding industry — the answer is a confident no. If anything, it enhances it. You’ve already shared a special moment privately, so when you see each other in front of a crowd, it’s simply a continuation of that emotion but with the added magic of your wedding guests witnessing it.

And if you want to keep some element of surprise? Consider a second look after a change of outfit, or reserve a special entrance for your ceremony location. If you’re on the fence, a great compromise that some couples opt for instead is a first touch. This could mean holding hands around a corner, or exchanging private vows before the big day officially begins. It’s a great way to share something meaningful without actually seeing each other before walking down the aisle.

MORE FLEXIBILITY WITH PHOTOGRAPHY

From a wedding photography standpoint, a first look is a dream. It allows for more portrait time in optimal natural light, smoother day timelines, and often gives your photo and video team the flexibility to get creative with your wedding party portraits and family formals. If you’re planning a fall or winter wedding, the time of year might also play a factor. With earlier sunsets, a first look ensures you can capture outdoor photos while the light is still ideal — rather than rushing through them after the ceremony location clears out.

It’s also a good option if you have a large family member list for photos. Getting some (or all!) of the family photos done early means a smoother transition into your reception time — and lets your parents, siblings, and grandparents enjoy more of the special day.

is a first look right for you?

The main difference between a private first look and sticking to old traditions is all about personal preference. For some, the idea of standing in front of crowds and revealing all those raw emotions during the aisle moment feels overwhelming — which is why having a private area away from the hustle of the wedding venue can be such an perfect opportunity. It’s a great time to connect not just as partners, but as best friends stepping into the day together. And perhaps the best part? There’s truly no wrong answer — just the beautiful moment that feels most right for you.

If you’re someone who values a calm, grounded start to your day, more time with your partner, and a relaxed wedding day timeline? A first look could be the good choice that makes all the difference. Talk with your wedding photographer, planner, or coordinator about whether a first look fits with your vision and logistics. And above all, do what feels true to the two of you. It’s your special day, and how you choose to experience it — from the early start to the end of the day — should reflect that.