Wedding first looks – are they a good idea?

Considering a first look for your wedding? Not sure if it’s the right move? Here’s my take on the pros and cons, plus a healthy dose of helpful advice I’ve picked up from photographing lots of beautiful wedding first looks over the years.

Whether it’s a bride and father first look, bride and bride, groom and groom, or bride and groom, here’s what you need to know. Let’s start with the positives…

The pros of doing a wedding first look on your wedding day

You’ll have more time for beautiful photos.

A first look gives you the chance to capture some really special, relaxed photos of you and your favourite people before all the action begins. You can build this into the schedule with your photographer so they’re in the right place at the right time to catch those genuine reactions, whether that’s between you and your partner, or you and a parent.

It frees up time later in the day.

By getting some of your portraits done before the ceremony, you’ll free up more time to enjoy your drinks reception, chat with guests, and soak it all in. I know a lot of couples don’t want to miss out on time with their guests just to take photos and I’m absolutely on board with that. It’s also why I don’t recommend doing a million group shots (more on that here). First look photos are a brilliant way to strike the balance; you get the portraits in early, and I get to spend the rest of the day capturing the fun as it unfolds.

It helps calm the nerves.

A wedding first look can be a beautiful, grounding moment before the whirlwind wedding day really begins, especially if you’re feeling a bit jittery. Whether it’s with your partner or a parent, it offers a quiet, emotional moment that’s just for the two of you. It often ends up being one of the most memorable parts of the day.

It’s ideal for winter weddings.

With fewer daylight hours, especially if your ceremony is in the afternoon, a first look helps you make the most of the light while it lasts. You’ll end up with a more varied set of images, from golden-hour glow to candlelit candids and you won’t be rushing to beat the sunset for those key portraits.

The cons of doing a wedding first look

It breaks with tradition.

For some couples, that’s no big deal. But for others, that “see you at the end of the aisle” moment is non-negotiable. If tradition matters to you, it’s completely okay to stick with it and don’t let anyone talk you out of it.

You’ll need to be ready earlier.

If you’re not the most punctual person (no judgement here!), building in extra time for a first look might add more stress than it’s worth. Be realistic about how your morning is going to flow. Can you comfortably be ready earlier without rushing?

It can be tricky to coordinate.

Depending on your venue layout and guest setup, finding a private space for your first look isn’t always straightforward. You’ll need somewhere away from early-arriving guests or overnight stayers and trust me, winging it on the day is not the one. A bit of pre-planning goes a long way here.

You might just prefer the aisle moment.

And honestly? That’s perfectly valid too. I have to admit, there’s something iconic about that walk down the aisle, especially if you’re seeing each other for the first time and that’s part of that moment you’ve always imagined.

Tips for planning a wedding first look on your wedding day

First looks aren’t for everyone but for the right couple, they can add something really meaningful to the day.

If you’re having a winter wedding or a late ceremony (2pm or later), I’d definitely recommend considering it just to make the most of the daylight for your portraits.

And if you do go for it, here are a few tips:

• Plan the time and place. Don’t leave it to chance. Make sure there’s a quiet, private space where you won’t be seen by guests.

• Think about your timeline. Build in enough time so you’re not rushed. You want to feel calm and present, not panicked.

• Make it personal. This is your moment; why not write each other a letter to read beforehand? Or swap a small gift or keepsake? You can really make this your own.