After Photographing More Than 400 Weddings, Here’s Why We Usually Recommend One
One of the most common questions couples ask us is:
“Should we do a first look?”
After photographing more than 400 weddings together, our answer is usually yes.
Not because it creates better photographs (although it certainly can), but because it often creates a more relaxed, enjoyable wedding day.
A first look gives you the chance to see each other before the ceremony, away from hundreds of guests, timelines, and expectations. It gives you a quiet moment to breathe, take everything in, and simply be together before the celebration begins.
We’ve seen nervous energy turn into excitement, tight timelines become far more relaxed, and couples spend significantly more time enjoying their wedding instead of rushing from one thing to the next.
Most importantly, we’ve never had a couple tell us they regretted doing one.
What Is a First Look?
A first look is a private moment where the two of you see each other before your wedding ceremony.
Rather than waiting until you’re walking down the aisle, you’ll share your first moment together somewhere quiet before the day’s events begin.
Some couples exchange private vows or letters. Others simply hug, laugh, cry, and enjoy a few uninterrupted minutes together.
There’s no right or wrong way to do it.
Does a First Look Ruin the Ceremony?
This is easily the biggest concern we hear.
The answer, after photographing hundreds of weddings?
Not at all.
The first look and the ceremony are completely different moments.
During a first look, you’re focused only on each other.
Walking down the aisle is something entirely different.
That’s the moment when your family and friends are gathered together. Music begins. The anticipation builds. Your parents see you. Your guests react. You’re about to promise the rest of your lives to one another.
We’ve watched countless couples cry during both moments.
One never replaces the other.
Why We Recommend a First Look
A More Relaxed Timeline
A first look gives you the flexibility to complete many of your portraits before the ceremony.
That usually means:
- Less rushing throughout the day
- More flexibility if the timeline changes
- More time with your guests after the ceremony
- Less pressure before sunset
Wedding days almost never go exactly according to plan.
Having extra flexibility makes a huge difference.
More Time Together
Without a first look, many couples don’t spend meaningful time together until dinner.
With a first look, you get to experience one of the biggest days of your lives together instead of separately.
For many couples, those quiet minutes become one of their favorite memories.
Better Portraits
Not every couple wants a full wedding day. You may have decided you prefer to have a late ceremony and take advantage of the setting sun to really create a mood around the moment you exchange your vows.
We love late ceremonies, by the way! But this can prove a challenge to then get you the couple shots you want, due to lack of light and less time to get them done.
A first look can totally solve this problem because you’ll be taking a few moments out before the ceremony to meet up and have those pictures taken. As far as we’re concerned, it’s the perfect solution!
You’ll Feel More Present
The biggest benefit isn’t photographs.
It’s how the day feels.
We’ve watched nervous couples completely relax after seeing each other.
Once you’ve shared that first moment together, the rest of the day often feels much more natural.
Instead of wondering when you’ll finally see each other again, you’re simply enjoying the celebration together.
When We Don’t Recommend a First Look
A first look isn’t right for everyone.
Some couples have always imagined seeing each other for the very first time during the ceremony.
Others have cultural or religious traditions that make a first look inappropriate.
That’s completely okay.
Our job isn’t to convince you one way or another.
It’s to help you understand the benefits of both options and build a timeline that works for your priorities.
Our Approach
A first look isn’t right for everyone.
Some couples have always imagined seeing each other for the very first time during the ceremony.
Others have cultural or religious traditions that make a first look inappropriate.
That’s completely okay.
Our job isn’t to convince you one way or another.
It’s to help you understand the benefits of both options and build a timeline that works for your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a first look ruin walking down the aisle?
Not in our experience. Couples almost always describe them as two completely different emotional moments.
How long does a first look take?
We typically recommend setting aside about 15–20 minutes for the first look itself, followed by portraits if they’re scheduled beforehand.
Can we exchange private vows during our first look?
Absolutely. Many couples choose to read personal vows or letters during this time because it allows for a more private, uninterrupted moment together.
Will you help us choose the best timeline?
Yes. Every wedding we photograph includes timeline guidance, and we’ll help you decide whether a first look makes sense for your day.
Planning Your Wedding?
Learn more about our Detroit Wedding Photography approach, browse our Detroit Engagement Photography page, or explore our Detroit Wedding Venue Guide for planning resources and real weddings throughout Metro Detroit.
