One of the biggest (and most emotional) decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding timeline?
Whether or not to do a first look.

You’ve probably seen those sweet photos — the teary groom, the giggling bride sneaking up behind him — but is it the right choice for your day? Let’s walk through the pros and cons to help you decide!

First, What Is a First Look?

A first look is when the couple sees each other before the ceremony, typically in a private, emotional moment captured by your photographer.
Instead of waiting until you walk down the aisle, you carve out a little pocket of time to soak it all in — just the two of you (and maybe your photo/video team quietly capturing the magic).

Sounds sweet, right? It totally can be. But it’s not for everyone!

Pros of Doing a First Look

• More Time Together
  You get to spend more of your wedding day actually together, instead of waiting until halfway through.

• Shake Off the Nerves
  That pre-ceremony anxiety? It melts away when you see each other. Cue the happy tears and big deep breaths.

• Better Photo Opportunities
  First looks often mean more relaxed, natural portraits — plus you’ll have more time (and light!) for beautiful couple shots before guests arrive.

• Smoother Timeline
  You can knock out lots of formal photos (family, wedding party) earlier, so you’re not rushing to squeeze them in during cocktail hour.

• More Private Emotions
  Some couples love that they can react freely without hundreds of eyes on them. Laugh, cry, ugly sob — no judgment here!

Cons of Doing a First Look

• Breaks Tradition
  If you’ve always dreamed of that dramatic "aisle moment," a first look can take a little of the surprise out of it.

• Earlier Start Time
  You’ll need to be ready earlier in the day — hair, makeup, dress, and all — to fit the first look and portraits in.

• Less Built-Up Anticipation
  Some couples love the traditional build-up of not seeing each other until that big, cinematic walk down the aisle.

• May Feel Staged for Some
  If you're super private or easily overwhelmed, setting up a first look moment might feel a little "posed" rather than natural — and that’s okay too!

No First Look: What Happens Instead?

If you skip the first look, you’ll stick with tradition and see each other for the first time during the ceremony.
It’s a powerful moment — emotional, dramatic, and unforgettable — but just keep in mind you’ll likely need to fit all portraits and family photos into cocktail hour afterward.

It’s totally doable, especially with a solid timeline and a photographer who’s great at keeping things moving.