One of the biggest decisions couples face when planning their wedding day is whether to do a first look or stick with the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the altar. As a Central Florida wedding photographer with a documentary-style approach, I’ve captured both, and each has its own magic! Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you decide what fits your vision.

1. Pro: An Intimate Moment Just for You

One of the best things about doing a first look is the chance to share a quiet, emotional moment together before the ceremony begins. Away from the eyes of guests, it’s just you, your partner, and the overwhelming excitement of what’s to come. I love capturing the genuine reactions—whether it’s tears, laughter, or pure joy—in a candid, natural way. In a moody, documentary style, these moments are pure gold, as they reveal raw, unfiltered emotion.

2. Con: It Breaks Tradition

If you’ve always dreamt of that traditional moment of seeing your partner for the first time as you walk down the aisle, a first look might not be for you. For some couples, the magic lies in that grand reveal during the ceremony. Central Florida weddings often lean on tradition, and if you’re someone who loves the build-up to that altar moment, skipping the first look might preserve that anticipation and excitement.

3. Pro: More Time for Photos (and Less Stress Later!)

One major advantage of a first look is that it allows us to get most of the couple’s portraits done early in the day. This means you’ll have more time to relax after the ceremony and enjoy cocktail hour with your guests! It’s especially helpful for Central Florida weddings where the light can change quickly in the afternoon. With more flexibility in timing, we can take advantage of beautiful locations and soft natural light without rushing.

4. Con: You Might Lose the “Surprise”

While a first look gives you an intimate moment together, it can take away that jaw-dropping reaction when your partner sees you walking down the aisle. Some couples feel that the first look makes the ceremony feel a little less special. However, in my experience as a Central Florida documentary wedding photographer, I’ve seen plenty of couples still get emotional during the ceremony, even after a first look!

5. Pro: It Helps Calm Nerves

Weddings are emotional, and the nerves can build up before the ceremony. A first look gives you the chance to calm those butterflies by spending a few private moments together. Many of my couples say they felt more at ease after the first look, making the ceremony feel even more relaxed and enjoyable. If you’re someone who wants a stress-free, laid-back day, a first look might be just the thing to make everything feel a bit more grounded.