First Look Perspectives from a Tennessee Wedding Photographer

When planning your wedding day, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to have a “first look” for your wedding or stick with the traditional route of seeing each other for the first time at the altar. Both options have their benefits, and as a Tennessee wedding photographer, I’ve seen how each approach can shape the day’s emotions and flow.

But hey–here’s my disclaimer before we get into the little details! Some people want the first look, others are set on not seeing each other all day, and some couples feel so much pressure to do whatever is “best for photos.” So here’s my take!

It’s your wedding. Think about what YOU want for your day? Do you want the classic & traditional way of the groom seeing his bride walk down the isle right before you say “I do?” I’ll say—this is a very sweet, dramatic, build up. Or!! Do you want some privacy to see each other for the very first time without your guests starring at your reactions? You could share private vows. You could take photos of the two of you. You could take photos with your bridal party & family so you don’t have to worry after the ceremony.

No matter what you choose, I don’t want you to think about “what is best for photos.” I promise you, your photos will fit what is best for you as a couple. Your photos will reflect the vision & dreams you have for your wedding day!! They will capture this day you’ve dreamt of your whole life!

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide what’s best for you.

What is a First Look?

A “first look” is a private moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day. This modern tradition allows for an intimate experience, often captured by your Tennessee wedding photographer, setting the tone for the rest of the day.

The Pros of a First Look

1. Emotional Intimacy

A first look offers a private, uninterrupted moment where you can fully express your emotions. Away from the eyes of your guests, you can laugh, cry, and just be yourselves. This can be incredibly special and allow for some heartfelt, candid photos that you’ll cherish forever. You could even read private vows with your significant other.

2. Eases Nerves

Many couples find that a first look helps ease wedding day jitters. Seeing the love of your life before the ceremony can calm nerves, making you feel more relaxed and present during the ceremony.

3. More Time for Photos

Having a first look often frees up time later in the day. You can get many of your couple and wedding party photos done before the ceremony, which means you’ll have more time to enjoy your cocktail hour and reception with your guests.

4. Flexibility with Timeline

A first look can offer more flexibility with your timeline. Since you’ll have most of your photos done before the ceremony, you won’t need to rush through them after, giving you a more relaxed schedule.

The Cons of a First Look

1. Breaks Tradition

One of the biggest drawbacks is that a first look breaks with the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony. If you’re someone who values tradition, this might not be the right choice for you.

2. Loss of the Big Reveal

The moment when the bride walks down the aisle is often one of the most anticipated and emotional parts of the day. A first look might diminish the impact of that big reveal in front of your guests.

3. Less Time to Get Ready

Choosing a first look means you’ll need to start getting ready earlier in the day. This can add a bit more pressure to your morning preparations, especially if you have a large bridal party or elaborate hair and makeup plans. If you choose a first look, just make sure you allow for more time before your ceremony begins.

The Pros of Waiting Until the Ceremony

1. Tradition and Anticipation

For many couples, the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony builds excitement and anticipation. The emotions are often heightened during that first moment at the altar, making it incredibly special.

2. Shared Experience with Guests

Waiting until the ceremony to see each other allows you to share that emotional moment with all your people. The collective gasp, the tears, and the joy from your guests add to the magic of the moment.

3. Enjoy the Full Ceremony Experience

When you wait until the ceremony, that walk down the aisle becomes a focal point. The buildup and anticipation culminate in that one moment, making it a powerful memory.

The Cons of Waiting Until the Ceremony

1. Limited Time for Photos

If you wait until after the ceremony for photos, you might feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to join your guests at the reception. This could limit the variety and number of photos you’re able to capture. If you don’t do a first look, I would encourage you to plan something to keep your guest entertained. Make sure your cocktail/mocktail hour has plenty of snacks for them while they wait!

2. Increased Nerves

For some, the anticipation of not seeing each other until the ceremony can actually increase nerves. You might feel more anxious leading up to the big moment.

3. Potential Timeline Crunch

Waiting until after the ceremony for all your photos could create a timeline crunch, especially if your ceremony is later in the day. You’ll need to fit in family photos, wedding party shots, and couple portraits in a limited amount of time. BUT don’t you worry, you should choose a photographer who is on board for whatever you choose!

What’s Right for You?

Whether you choose to have a first look or wait until the ceremony, there’s no right or wrong answer—just do what feels right for you as a couple. Consider your personalities, traditions, and how you envision your wedding day. As your Tennessee wedding photographer, I’m here to capture the magic, no matter what choice you make. Both options offer beautiful, emotional moments that you’ll treasure forever. AND that’s my job as your photographer, to document what is happening during your day, not to convince you do do “whatever is best for your photos.”

I’d love to be your wedding photographer for your Tennessee wedding!!

If you’re still on the fence, I’m happy to discuss your vision and help you make the best decision for your big day. Remember, it’s your wedding, and it should be exactly what you’ve always dreamed of!