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You’ve probably heard of the first look, but maybe you’re not quite sure what it is. Or perhaps you’re considering it for your wedding and would love a photographer’s perspective before making a decision. You’re in the right place! Here’s a simple overview of this popular trend and a few reasons why it might be a beautiful addition to your day.
What is the first look?
A first look is when you and your partner see each other before the ceremony. It usually takes about 15 minutes and happens in a quiet, intimate location, just the two of you and your photographer, away from any distractions. This could be in your backyard, at your hotel or near your ceremony venue for instance.
If you prefer to keep a more traditional feel, you can opt for a first touch instead. For example, you might stand on either side of a door, holding hands and exchanging a few words without seeing each other. This way, the surprise is preserved for the ceremony.
In both cases, this moment doesn’t take anything away from the walk down the aisle. If emotions come up during the first look, they will often return just as strongly, if not more, when you’re surrounded by your loved ones. You don’t lose the magic, you simply get to experience it twice!
Why consider a first look?
More and more couples are choosing to include a first look because it helps the day flow more smoothly. Here are a few reasons to think about it:
– Savour a quiet moment together.
This is a rare pause in an otherwise busy day. You get to see each other, react freely and truly take it all in. These genuine emotions are beautifully captured and become memories you’ll cherish for years.
– Enjoy more time with your guests.
Seeing each other beforehand allows us to complete part of your couple portraits earlier in the day. Since these photos often take place during cocktail hour, this means you’ll be able to spend more time with your guests.
– Create a wider variety of images.
A first look gives us the flexibility to explore different locations and lighting conditions. It also adds another emotional moment to your gallery, which brings even more depth to your story.
– Add flexibility to your timeline.
Whether it’s a tight schedule, unpredictable weather or an early sunset, the first look gives us more room to adapt. It can take a lot of pressure off and help everything run more smoothly.
– Ease your nerves.
Spending a few quiet minutes together before the ceremony can help you relax. Once you’ve seen each other, it often feels easier to stay present and fully enjoy the rest of the day.
So, should you have a first look?
At the end of the day, the decision is entirely yours. You should never feel pressured to include one if it doesn’t feel right for you. That said, as a photographer, I’ve seen many couples hesitate at first, and not one of them has regretted it in the end 😉
Here are a few beautiful examples of first looks I’ve had the chance to capture over the years:
Myriame and Marc-Antoine shared a deeply emotional first look. It allowed me to capture their reactions from every angle, something that wouldn’t have been possible during their church ceremony
Angélique and Baptiste included their children in their first look. It created a meaningful family moment and helped settle their little one before the ceremony.
Lastly, Barbara and Alexandre chose a first touch. They were able to talk and hold hands while still keeping the surprise for the aisle
Last update: April 2026
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