Why You Should Consider Doing a First Look

Nothing compares to the moment you see the love of your life for the first time on your wedding day! Whether that’s during a first look or as you walk down the aisle, it’s an emotional and intimate highlight—and hands down one of my favourite moments to capture as a photographer. I’m a big fan of first looks, but I know some couples hesitate because it can feel “non-traditional.” The truth is, a first look can add so much meaning and ease to your day, and it’s an option worth considering. Every wedding detail is deeply personal, and a first look is no different. It’s more than just a trend—it’s a chance to share a private, heartfelt moment with your partner amidst all the excitement. Whether or not it's right for you depends on your priorities, but many couples who choose a first look say it’s one of the best decisions they made.

Should you say “I DO” to a first look? Keep reading to discover some of the many benefits —you might just fall in love with the idea!

Here are the top reasons you should consider a first look:

Emotional Connection

Your wedding day is filled with many emotions, and a first look offers the perfect chance to pause and soak in the moment together before the ceremony. It’s a moment to hold hands, share excited smiles, and maybe even shed a few happy tears—without the pressure of an audience. For couples who spend a lot of time together, it often feels natural to meet earlier in the day. Sharing those nervous, excited emotions privately can feeling grounding for both of you before the festivities truly begin.

This intimate moment deepens your connection, allowing you to see each other for the first time without the crowd watching. If you’re feeling nervous about walking down the aisle or being the centre of attention, a first look can ease that pressure, taking the focus off the “big reveal” and helping you approach the ceremony with calm and confidence.  The jitters fade, the anticipation eases, and by the time you walk down the aisle, you’ve already shared a deeply meaningful connection with your partner.

More Time for Photos

A first look can significantly streamline your wedding day timeline. By capturing many of your wedding photos before the ceremony, you’ll have more time to spend with your guests during cocktail hour or the reception. Additionally, scheduling your photos earlier ensures you have access to beautiful natural lighting, avoiding the rush and stress of photos after the ceremony. This is especially important in the winter months when the sun sets earlier, and you may lose that perfect light. Another benefit is the opportunity to split up your photo session, allowing for a more relaxed experience instead of doing all your photos back-to-back immediately after the ceremony. You won’t feel rushed to get all your portraits done during the short cocktail hour, and this also means that you won’t need to inconvenience your guests with a long break in between the ceremony and the start of cocktail hour. But most importantly, a first look gives you more time to simply enjoy each other’s company on your wedding day, without feeling rushed.

A Personal Choice

Not every couple chooses to do a first look, and that’s perfectly okay. Your wedding day should reflect what feels right for you as a couple. This decision is deeply personal and should align with your values, whether you want to honour tradition or prioritize an intimate moment together. For some, the magic of seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony is unmatched. The build-up of nerves and anticipation can be a beautiful feeling and moment, especially when surrounded by family and friends.

Fast-forward to the ceremony. That aisle walk? It’s still packed with emotion! Even couples who’ve had a first look often find themselves tearing up all over again when the music starts, and that walk toward each other becomes a reality. It’s just the magic of the moment, whether it’s the first or second time.

If you’ve always dreamed of this moment happening during the ceremony, embrace it—it’s your day, and it should feel authentic to your vision. Skipping a first look also has its practical benefits. If you prefer an earlier ceremony or want a more traditional flow to your day, waiting until the ceremony may be the right fit. It can also create a natural gap between the ceremony and reception, giving you time to soak in the moment, take portraits, or just breathe before the party begins. Whether you choose a first look or not, what matters most is that the decision reflects your love story and makes you feel excited and at ease as you step into this new chapter together.

Cherishing the Moment  

A first look creates a special memory that stands apart from the formality of the ceremony. It’s a moment you can look back on and cherish as a private highlight of your day. The reactions captured during a first look are often raw, genuine, and full of emotion—something you’ll treasure forever.  Ultimately, a first look is about making your day feel true to you as a couple. It’s a chance to embrace a quiet, heartfelt moment.

Deciding whether or not to have a first look isn’t always easy. It can involve input from family members, considerations about your timeline, or even the timing of natural light for photos. The good news? You can always change your mind—even on the day itself! A skilled photographer will adapt and help coordinate any adjustments, ensuring everything flows smoothly.

I love capturing first looks for all the reasons shared above. But whether you choose to have one or not, I’m here to document every raw, real moment of your best day ever. Ready to capture every raw and emotional moment? Check out these expert tips for creating a wedding album that truly tells your love story!

Thanks so much for reading!

-Sarah Nichol Photography