You’re planning your wedding and someone—probably a well-meaning friend—mentions the first look photos. You know, that moment when you see each other privately before the ceremony, long before you step foot down the aisle in front of a crowd. It’s one of those wedding decisions that can spark a fairly passionate debate. Some couples are all in, while others are staunchly traditional. Which leaves the question, is a first look the way to go, or should you stick with the classic “I do” reveal at the altar?

Let’s break it down, from a wedding photographers perspective.

The Pros of First Look Photos Before the Ceremony

1. You’ll experience a Truly Intimate Moment
   The first look photos give you and your partner a chance to share a really private moment together. No one’s watching, no one’s waiting for you to hurry up and get to the ceremony. It’s just the two of you, enjoying a quiet moment before the whirlwind of the day begins. It’s like your own little secret—except it’s not a secret because you’ll have the first look photos!
2. Good Bye Wedding Nerves
   Everyone knows it: weddings are stressful. There’s the dress, the vows, the relatives who haven’t spoken to each other in years… the last thing you need is the added pressure of not knowing what your partner looks like until the moment you walk down the aisle. Seeing each other beforehand can help calm those pre-ceremony jitters, so you can focus on the fun stuff—like actually getting married and partying at the reception!
3. More Time for Photos
   As much as we love a good “just married” photo, the first look actually gives you more time to take some beautiful, relaxed portraits before the ceremony. Think about it: you’re fresh, you’ve got perfect lighting (hello, golden hour), and there’s no rushing to get to the reception. Your photographer has more time to capture those genuine, candid moments. Plus, you might even be able to sneak in more photos with your bridal party and family, too!
4. Flexibility for Your Timeline
   Let’s say you want a longer cocktail hour so your guests can mingle while you take photos. A first look makes this possible. You get all the pre-ceremony photos out of the way, which means you have more time to enjoy with your guests after the ceremony.
5. Genuine Reactions
   One of the most beautiful things about the first look is that you get to see your partner’s face when they first see you. The excitement, the tears, the big smile—it’s all captured on camera without any pressure. Plus, you can be a little more relaxed since you’re not about to walk in front of 200 people.

The Cons of First Look Photos Before the Ceremony

1. It’s Not Exactly Traditional
   If you’re a stickler for tradition, the first look might feel like a bit of a betrayal. The classic “OMG, you look amazing” moment at the altar is a big deal for some couples. Seeing each other before the ceremony can take away that dramatic, tear-filled entrance down the aisle.
2. Less of a Surprise Moment
   For some couples, the emotional punch of seeing each other for the first time at the altar is everything. If that’s what you’ve been dreaming about, a first look might feel like it dampens the emotional intensity of the big reveal. After all, there’s something special about the anticipation that builds up to that very moment.
3. Earlier Start Time
   A first look requires some extra time in the morning for hair, makeup, and, of course, the moment itself. You’ll need to start getting ready a little earlier to make sure everything flows smoothly. If you’re already operating on a tight timeline, this might add some stress to an already busy day.
4. It’s Not for Everyone
   At the end of the day, it really comes down to personal preference. If you’ve always dreamed of the dramatic wedding reveal and want that special moment when you step into the aisle, a first look might not be for you. And that’s perfectly fine!

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So, should you go for first look photos before or after the ceremony? If you want a more intimate, relaxed start to your day with extra time for photos and fewer nerves, a first look might just be the perfect fit. But if you’re a fan of tradition and want that emotional punch of seeing each other for the first time in front of everyone, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to the classic wedding reveal.

In the end, there’s no right or wrong answer—just what feels right for you.