As your big day draws near, you’re faced with a million decisions—one of the most exciting being whether to include a “First Look” in your wedding timeline. This tender moment, where you and your partner share a private reveal before the ceremony, is becoming a beloved tradition for many couples. But is it the right choice for you? As a wedding photographer who’s captured countless love stories, I’m here to share my perspective to help you make the best decision for your wedding day!

Why Consider a First Look?

The First Look is one of those rare, magical moments where time seems to stand still. Picture this: the excitement of getting ready, the anticipation building, and then, just before you say “I do,” you steal away for a quiet moment together. In this private setting, it’s just you and your partner, allowing you to savor each other’s presence before the whirlwind of the day begins. The joy, the tears, the laughter—all captured in a serene space that’s all yours!

This intimate setting can be a game-changer for couples who want to take the edge off their nerves. Seeing each other before the ceremony can help calm those jitters, allowing you to enjoy the rest of your day with ease. Plus, it gives you a chance to exchange personal vows or gifts, creating even more meaningful memories.

The Photographic Benefits

From a photographer’s perspective, the First Look is a dream come true! The moment you lock eyes with your partner for the first time on your wedding day is pure emotion—unfiltered and genuine. Because we have more control over where the First Look takes place, we can plan for perfect lighting and location. Having a First Look also opens up more time for portraits. Since you have already seen each other, we have more time to capture all the formal bridal party and family portraits all before the ceremony begins. This means you’ll be able to fully enjoy cocktail hour with your guests or even simply have a few moments to yourselves before the reception kicks off. I’ve personally found this flexibility often leads to a more relaxed and enjoyable experience overall.

What About Tradition?

For some couples, the idea of a First Look may feel like it goes against tradition. There’s something undeniably special about that moment when the doors open, and you see each other for the first time at the altar, surrounded by loved ones. If you’ve always dreamed of that classic aisle reveal, then sticking to tradition might be the perfect choice for you.

But here’s the good news: you can have the best of both worlds. Even with a First Look, the moment you walk down the aisle remains powerful and unique. The emotions you’ll feel seeing your partner waiting for you, this time in front of all your family and friends, are just as moving.

Making the Right Choice for You

So, should you do a First Look? The answer isn’t always straightforward because it’s such a personal decision. What works for one couple may not be the right fit for another. That’s why it’s essential to consider what feels most authentic to you and your partner. After all, your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love story, and every choice you make should reflect that. Before making the decision here are all the factors you should consider:

Consider Your Vision:

Start by thinking about the vision you have for your wedding day. Are you imagining a day filled with intimate, personal moments, or do you dream of a grand, traditional ceremony where the first look happens at the altar? Visualizing how you want your day to unfold can be a great first step in deciding whether a First Look fits into that picture.

Think About Your Nerves:

Another factor to consider is how you and your partner handle pre-ceremony nerves. If the thought of walking down the aisle with butterflies in your stomach makes you a bit anxious, a First Look can be a wonderful way to ease those jitters. Sharing a quiet moment together beforehand allows you to connect and ground each other, turning any pre-wedding anxiety into pure excitement.

Timing and Flexibility:

Logistically, a First Look can also be a game-changer when it comes to your timeline. By seeing each other before the ceremony, you can complete many of your portraits ahead of time. This means more time for you to enjoy with your guests during cocktail hour, or even just a few extra minutes to catch your breath before the reception kicks off. If you’re planning a summer wedding in Arizona, where the midday heat can be intense, doing a First Look earlier in the day might also mean more comfortable, cooler temperatures for your portraits.

The Emotional Impact:

Don’t forget the emotional side of things. The First Look offers a private, uninterrupted moment where you can truly be yourselves—laughing, crying, and soaking in the joy of your day. For some couples, this becomes one of the most cherished memories of their wedding. However, if you’ve always dreamed of that dramatic moment when your partner sees you walking down the aisle for the first time, surrounded by loved ones, then honoring that tradition might be more meaningful to you.

Blending Tradition and Personal Touches:

It’s also worth noting that you don’t have to choose one over the other. Many couples find a balance that works for them. You could have a First Look for that intimate connection and still experience the awe of seeing each other at the altar. Remember, this day is about celebrating your love in the way that feels most authentic to you.

Trust Your Instincts:

Ultimately, the choice is yours. Whether you choose to share that first moment in private or wait until the ceremony, what matters most is that it reflects your love story. Don’t feel pressured to follow trends or traditions that don’t resonate with you. Trust your instincts, and make the decision that feels right for you and your partner. Your wedding day is a reflection of your journey together, and every detail should celebrate the love you share.

As a Scottsdale-based wedding photographer, I’m here to help guide you through every step of your wedding journey. Whether it’s capturing the joy of your proposal, the excitement of your engagement portraits, or the unforgettable moments of your big day, my goal is to make sure your love story shines through in every image.

If you’re planning your Arizona wedding and want to discuss how a First Look might fit into your day, I’d love to hear from you! Please reach out and tell me about your vision through my contact page. I can’t wait to chat more!