The Magic of First Looks: Why I Encourage Couples to Consider It

As a wedding photographer, one of the most meaningful parts of my job is helping couples create a timeline that allows space for connection, joy, and calm amidst the excitement of the day. One of the best ways to make that happen? A first look.

I know the idea of seeing each other before the ceremony can feel like a big decision—especially if you’ve always imagined that moment happening at the altar. But hear me out, because I truly believe in the magic of first looks!

Here’s why I love the magic of first looks:

1. A Relaxed, More Peaceful Timeline
Weddings are full of beautiful moments, but they can also be full of hustle. When you choose a first look, it creates breathing room in your timeline. You can take portraits before the ceremony, get all the wedding party photos done in advance, and head into the rest of the day feeling ahead instead of rushed.

2. A Moment Just for the Two of You
One of the most common things couples say at the end of the night is “I can’t believe how fast it went.” A first look offers a quiet, meaningful moment before the whirlwind begins—a chance to be fully present with each other. It’s often the only time you’ll have alone all day, and those few minutes can be incredibly grounding (and emotional in the best way).

3. Better Portraits, With More Variety
When we have time earlier in the day for portraits, the results are always more relaxed, natural, and creative. There’s no rush to get to the reception. The light is usually beautiful. And we’re able to capture a wider variety of images without squeezing everything into cocktail hour.

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What Happens If You Don’t Do a First Look?

Of course, every wedding day is unique. But in my experience, skipping the first look often leads to a more rushed, less intentional flow. Without it:

• You’re cramming all your portraits into a short window after the ceremony.
• You miss most (or all) of your cocktail hour.
• You don’t have a quiet moment together before the day unfolds.

And that dreamy, romantic portrait time? It gets cut short—or squeezed into less-than-ideal light.

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But Will Walking Down the Aisle Still Feel Special?

Absolutely. I promise you, that moment is still breathtaking. You’ll still feel the butterflies. You’ll still lock eyes across a room filled with everyone you love. And the emotion? It’s just as powerful—sometimes even more so, because you’ve already had that moment to connect and be present with each other.

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At the end of the day, your wedding should reflect what feels right for you. But if you’re on the fence about a first look, I hope this gives you a glimpse into why I believe so deeply in the beauty (and the sanity!) it can bring to your day.

Want to talk through what a first look could look like in your timeline? I’m always happy to help!

Sam and Justin’s Glen Manor House wedding is the perfect example of the magic of first looks. It made the whole day flow so smoothly and I love the expressions on their faces at the first look. Those archways at the Glen are too die for (especially before guests arrive and cocktail hour is set up!)