Why a Pre-Ceremony First Look is Always a Good Idea

What Is the First Look?

The first look is when a couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day. This intimate moment typically makes for an emotional photo opportunity.

So I know “the first look” isn’t the newest trend out there, but the “should I/shoudn’t I” topic still comes up ALL THE TIME with my clients. I totally get the desire to wait until the big moment of walking down the aisle to see your person on your wedding day, but as a planner literally hundreds of weddings under my belt, I can tell you that doing a first look is almost always a good idea. Here’s why:

You can get many of the photos taken before the ceremony:

Getting the majority of the portrait, wedding party and family shots out of the way before the ceremony will allow you to be a PART of your actual wedding celebration (particularly cocktail hour, which will be almost completely eaten up with formal photos if you choose not to see your partner before the walk down the aisle). Additionally, with the formal shot list out of the way, the photographer is now free to capture the authentic moments of the celebration.

2. It gives you and your partner a few moments together:

It is 100% a myth that having a first look will spoil the ceremony. You’ll be overwhelmed with emotion no matter what, so if you want to see your partner, don’t skip it. It gives couples a moment to take a deep breath and connect with each other before the day officially begins.

3. You can capture an emotional moment on camera:

A wedding is an intimate, emotional experience, and a first look means the photographer can capture a couple together in that moment. Yes, walking down the aisle is emotional, too, but you’re not together in those photographs.

And if those reasons aren’t enough to convince you, check out some of my favorite first look scenes from Boston - Area Weddings!

First Look Photos at The Trinity Church in Copley Square (Zev Fisher Photography)