Let’s talk about one of the biggest questions couples ask when planning their wedding day timeline:
Should we do a first look, or wait for the traditional aisle reveal?
Both options are beautiful, meaningful, and totally valid—there’s no wrong choice here. It all comes down to what feels right for you two and what you value most on your wedding day. So, let’s break it down:
The First Look
A first look is when you and your partner see each other before the ceremony, usually in a private and intimate setting with just your photo and video team nearby. It’s become super popular over the years—and for good reason!
Pros:
- You get to hang out together all day. No waiting, no stress, just soaking in the excitement together.
- More time for photos. You can knock out portraits, wedding party, and even some family photos before the ceremony.
- Less pressure. Having a quiet moment together can help calm nerves before walking down the aisle.
- Maximize sunlight. Especially for fall or winter weddings, a first look ensures you get those dreamy golden-hour shots without racing against the clock after the ceremony.
Cons:
- You lose the “aisle moment.” If your partner has always dreamed of seeing you for the first time when the doors open or when you start walking toward them, this could take away from that.
- Logistically, you’ll need to be ready earlier. Which means starting hair and makeup a bit sooner in the day.
Why some couples choose a first look:
If spending as much time together as possible, having a relaxed timeline, and getting more portraits done in natural light are high on your priority list—you might be a first look couple.
The Traditional Aisle Reveal
The traditional aisle reveal is what we’ve seen in weddings for generations: you don’t see each other until one of you walks down the aisle, and the other is waiting at the altar, heart pounding.
Pros:
- THE moment. There’s nothing quite like the emotion of seeing your person walking toward you for the first time in front of all your favorite people.
- Timeless and classic. This is what people have done for years—and sometimes that nostalgia hits in all the right ways.
- Simpler schedule. You don’t have to factor in a separate moment or location for the first look.
Cons:
- Less time for photos. You’ll likely need to fit portraits, wedding party, and family shots between the ceremony and reception.
- Tighter timeline. Depending on when your ceremony ends, you might have to hustle to get photos done before the light fades (especially in winter!).
Why some couples choose the traditional aisle reveal:
If you’re all about that once-in-a-lifetime, butterflies-in-your-stomach aisle moment—and you’re not too worried about a packed photo schedule—this might be the perfect fit for you.
So… Which Should You Choose?
Honestly? There’s no “better” choice.
A first look isn’t more modern. A traditional reveal isn’t more romantic. They’re just different, and they both have their own kind of magic.
Your partner may still cry seeing their lover come down the aisle even after a first look, and you will create a timeline with enough time for all portraits after the ceremony. Both are great in it’s own right.
Here’s what we always tell our couples: Do what feels right for YOU.
If the idea of a private moment before the ceremony feels comforting and exciting, go for the first look.
If you’ve been dreaming of locking eyes at the altar with all your guests witnessing it, stick with the traditional reveal.
Whatever you choose, we’ll be there to capture it all—the laughs, the tears, the joy, and every beautiful in-between moment.
Need help building a timeline that works with your decision? Let’s chat! We’re here to help you create an stress-free, magical day that feels just like you. Inquire HERE !
