A Wedding Day ‘First Look’ | 10 Things You Need to Consider

Your wedding day is filled with so many exciting moments, and one of the most anticipated is the “first look.” This intimate moment between you and your partner has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s no wonder why—it’s a chance to share a private, emotional moment before the hustle and bustle of the ceremony begins. However, before you decide if a first look is right for you, there are a few things to consider. Here are 10 essential factors to help you decide whether a first look is the perfect way to start your wedding day.

1. The Emotional Impact of a Wedding Day First Look

A first look can bring out some powerful emotions. It’s a private moment for the two of you to see each other for the first time on your wedding day, without an audience. If you’re someone who values intimacy and wants a moment to take everything in, the first look can be incredibly special. Consider whether you want to share this intimate moment privately or whether you’d prefer the traditional grand reveal at the ceremony.

2. Timing and Schedule

Wedding days can be a whirlwind of events, and you want to ensure you have enough time to savor every moment. A wedding day first look can help you manage the day’s timeline more efficiently. By seeing each other beforehand, you can get all the formal portraits done before the ceremony, allowing you more time to enjoy your reception and guests- especially your cocktail hour which is something no couples should miss! But a first look can also add more time to your day in the morning portion.

3. Location, Location, Location

Choosing the perfect location for your wedding day first look is key to making the moment feel special. Some couples prefer a scenic outdoor setting, while others might opt for a more private, intimate indoor space. Consider the backdrop for your photos—whether it’s a beautiful garden, a grand staircase, or a cozy corner of your venue. I will help to scout the location in advance to ensure optimal lighting and romance.

4. Photographer’s Perspective

I feel a first look should be a semi-private moment. I’ll always give you plenty of space, taking photos wiht a longer lens and allowing the moment to unfold on it’s own. It’s a very emotion time for a couple and I want you to have memories of it without your photography being a noticeable part of this. I don’t think photographers should even interject on a first look moment.

5. Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony

While many couples choose a wedding day first look to capture a private moment, others prefer the traditional approach of waiting to see each other for the first time during the ceremony. If you’re torn, consider how you and your partner feel about seeing each other beforehand. If you both feel like the emotional impact of the ceremony is more important to you, the first look might not be necessary.

6. Reducing Wedding Day Stress

The wedding day can feel overwhelming with all the planning and excitement. Seeing your partner before the ceremony can help calm your nerves and reduce stress. Having a quiet, emotional moment together helps you feel more centered and connected, allowing you to focus on the ceremony and the rest of the day with more peace of mind.

7. Guest Experience

Some couples worry that a wedding day first look might take away from the excitement of the ceremony reveal. However, it can actually add to the experience by allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed and natural ceremony, with no pressure to make a dramatic first reveal in front of everyone. A first look allows your guests to enjoy the ceremony and the other moments of the day more fully, as they won’t have to wait for you to do your formal portraits.

8. Your Dress and Grooming

If your dress is intricate or if you’ve spent a lot of time getting your makeup and hair just right, a first look can help preserve your appearance before any potential messes. A pre-ceremony moment allows you to get all the “formal” photos done so you won’t have to worry about your dress being creased or your makeup getting smudged during the ceremony or reception. Then again, if you are a big crier you may want to retouch your makeup before the ceremony!

9. Surprise Factor

If you and your partner want the emotional experience of seeing each other for the first time with an audience, then the first look may not be for you. Some couples enjoy the idea of having that “wow” moment with all of their guests as witnesses. If the element of surprise is important, then you might prefer to hold off until the ceremony to see each other for the first time.

10. Weather Considerations

If you’re planning a first look outdoors, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan ready in case the weather doesn’t cooperate on the big day. For instance, you can choose an indoor location or even opt for a “rain plan” that allows for an alternate space to still have an intimate moment together without stress. Planning for unexpected weather can ensure that your first look remains just as memorable.

Conclusion

A wedding day first look can be a beautiful way to start your special day, offering both emotional depth and practical benefits. Whether you choose to have one or not depends on what kind of experience you want to create. For some, it’s a chance to share a private moment, while for others, it’s about preserving the excitement for the ceremony. Either way, understanding the logistics, emotions, and timing of your decision will ensure your first look is one of the most memorable moments of your wedding day.

Are you planning a first look for your wedding? What’s your vision for the big day? I want to know all about it!