What Is a First Look at a Wedding? And Should You Have One?
Pros, Cons, and Real Talk From a Metro Detroit Wedding Photographer
As a wedding photographer in Metro Detroit, one of the questions I hear all the time is:
“Should we do a first look?”
If you’re not sure what that even means, or whether it’s right for you, don’t worry because you’re definitely not alone. This post will walk you through what a first look actually is, how to know if it fits your vibe, and two major benefits that couples don’t always realize.
Let’s get into it.
What Is a First Look, Exactly?
A first look is a private moment where you and your partner see each other before the ceremony. Usually just the two of you (and your photographer quietly nearby). If you work with me, I’ll probably be silently crying behind my camera because I love love and watching y’all share that moment is literally my favorite part of a wedding day.
Instead of seeing each other for the first time as one of you walks down the aisle, you get to experience that emotional moment more privately without 150 people watching. This is also the time where you can read your vows to one another, privately. Again, without 150 people watching.
Some couples cry. Some laugh. Some take a deep breath and say, “Okay. Let’s do this.”
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Is a First Look Right for You?
Here’s the truth: A first look isn’t for everyone and that is totally okay. In my experience, I’d say it’s been 50/50 on if my couples do a first look or not. For some, they immediately make the choice to do a first look and private vows because it calms their nerves and anxiety. For others, they want to wait for that moment of their partner seeing them walk down the aisle for the first time, because that’s what they’ve always dreamed of.
So long story short - it’s your choice.
If you're dreaming of a traditional aisle moment and that’s really important to you, stick with that! I’m a big believer in doing what feels most you.
But…
If you're even considering a first look, and wondering if it’s “worth it,” here are two big reasons why my couples often choose to do a first look and are so glad they did.
Like the idea of a first look, but still don’t want to do one because you want that aisle moment? You can opt for a first touch, first prayer, or something of the nature. This photo is from a first touch that one of my couples did. They wanted to see eachother when the ceremony happened, but they wanted to calm their nerves a bit, so they did a first touch around a corner of the venue.
Benefit #1: You Actually Get to Enjoy Cocktail Hour and your entire wedding
Without a first look, most couples spend the entire cocktail hour doing portraits. The wedding party, family formals, and newlywed photos. That’s a lot to squeeze in right after the ceremony. While I have zero problem knocking all of that out, it takes a mental toll on the couple and by the time dinner + dances roll around, they still haven’t had a second to say hi to anyone at their wedding, so they miss out on spending time with their families + loved ones.
With a first look, we can knock out most of those photos before the ceremony ever starts. Which means you get to enjoy that glass of champagne, hug your people, and be present. Afterall, its your freakin’ wedding day. You should be able to actually experience it, and not just re-live who was there through photos when you get your gallery back.
Your guests came to celebrate you. Doing a first look gives you the time to actually enjoy it.
Benefit #2: It Takes the Pressure Off (and Speeds Things Up)
Most of your must-have photos? We can do them before the ceremony.
That includes your couples portraits, all of the wedding party photos, and most (if not all) of your family formals.
This makes your day feel less rushed especially if you want to relax after the ceremony instead of being hustled off for an hour of photos. You also won’t have to worry about fading light in the fall or chasing the clock in winter.
It gives your whole timeline some breathing room.
One of my couples said, “The first look made everything feel so much more calm. It was like we could exhale and actually enjoy the rest of the day.”
So… Should You Do a First Look?
Here’s my advice:
If you value privacy, connection, and want to be present with your people after the ceremony, a first look might be the best decision you make.
If the aisle moment is something you’ve dreamed of forever, that’s valid too.
Either way, I’m here to help you make a plan that feels good, fits your day, and results in photos that feel 100% you.
Still Deciding?
If you’re planning your wedding and wondering how a first look could fit into your timeline, let’s talk it through. I’d love to walk you through what’s worked for other couples and help you decide what feels right for your day.