The Significance of the First Look

Bride and Groom First Look

Many of my couples ask me whether or not they should have a first look. If you are reading this, you are probably wondering the same thing. In my professional opinion, I think first looks are an excellent idea. I love first looks. I know that they are a tad bit ‘untraditional,’ but let me take a minute to explain the benefits of a first look.

1. Your wedding day will be crazy busy. There is no getting around it. You have so much to do and so little time to do it in. If you have a first look, it helps to calm down the day a bit. Instead of trying to rush around to get everyone together and taking photos between the wedding ceremony and reception while your guests are waiting, you will have that time to relax and enjoy your guests. We can do all of the main portraits before the ceremony even begins – at the very least, the bride and groom and bridal party photos. This way, your hair and makeup are still perfect, as they were just finished. Additionally, we can do your family photos beforehand, or then only have a few of them to arrange after the ceremony.

   1. A first look also gives you a very special, intimate moment with your new spouse. It is a chance to pause and breathe in the middle of a hectic day. If you are nervous or stressed out this will especially help to relax you. Your spouse can comfort you and let you know it will all be OK. With a first look, that moment is just between you and your spouse (and your photographers, of course). 

      1. BONUS TIP - you can also do a first look with your bridesmaids. It is amazing to listen to them squeal with delight about how radiant you look in your dress.

      2. ABSOLUTE MUST - do a first look with your dad! Most dads melt into a puddle of emotion when he sees his baby girl all dolled up for the first time.

      3. Even if you have a first look, your partner will be just as happy to see you walking down the aisle. You will still take their breath away. Don’t worry that you’ll be spoiling the moment by seeing them prior to the ceremony. If anything, it creates an additional moment because there is a whole new set of emotions when they see you in the aisle.

Ready to plan your first look as part of your wedding day? Shoot me a message now and let's chat about your wedding day.

Learn more about all my wedding photography at https://www.mdkauffmann.com

FAQ’s

1. What is a “first look” on a wedding day?
   A first look is a planned moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony—usually in a private setting—so you can share that reaction and then move into portraits.

2. Why do photographers recommend a first look?
   Because it helps the day feel less rushed. You can take key portraits (couple + wedding party, and sometimes family) before the ceremony instead of squeezing everything into cocktail hour.

3. Does a first look help with the wedding day timeline?
   Yes. By doing portraits earlier, you reduce the pressure between the ceremony and reception and often gain more time to relax, be present, and enjoy your guests.

4. Will a first look “ruin” the moment of seeing each other at the ceremony?
   No. The post emphasizes that the aisle moment still hits—often with a different wave of emotion—so you’re not spoiling anything, you’re adding another meaningful moment.

5. Are there other “first look” ideas besides seeing your partner?
   Yes. The post suggests a first look with bridesmaids (for the fun reactions) and strongly encourages a first look with your dad—often an emotional, unforgettable moment.