First Look vs. Traditional Aisle Reveal: Which Wedding Moment is Right for You?

When it comes to planning your wedding day, few decisions feel as emotionally charged as how you’ll see each other for the first time. Should you do a “First Look” before the ceremony or wait for the Traditional Aisle Reveal?

Both moments are unforgettable—but they offer different experiences. As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing both, and I want to walk you through the pros, cons, and some insight from my own portfolio.

The Traditional Aisle Reveal

There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of the doors opening, the music playing, and seeing your partner for the first time at the altar. It’s the moment many couples have dreamed about since they were little—and for good reason.

Why I love it (and personally prefer it):

• The emotion of that moment is unmatched—the raw tears, the joy, the reactions of your guests.

• It keeps with tradition, making the ceremony feel even more sacred and special.

• The anticipation builds throughout the morning, making that walk down the aisle unforgettable.

  
  

Things to Consider:

• You’ll have to take most of your portraits after the ceremony, which can shorten your time at cocktail hour.

• Depending on the season, waiting until later in the day could mean racing against the light for outdoor portraits.

  
  

📸 From my portfolio: I’ve captured countless grooms overcome with emotion as their bride walked toward them—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of look that never gets old.

The First Look

A First Look is a private moment between you and your partner before the ceremony. Instead of waiting for the aisle, you meet in a quiet spot—just the two of you (and me in the background capturing it).

Why couples choose it:

• It helps calm nerves—you’ll feel more relaxed walking into the ceremony.

• It gives you extra time for portraits earlier in the day, which means you can often enjoy more of your cocktail hour.

• You get two “first look” moments: the private reveal and the walk down the aisle.

  
  

Things to Consider:

• It breaks tradition if you’ve always envisioned seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony.

• Some couples feel the emotions aren’t as heightened as they are with the aisle reveal (though I’ve seen plenty of tears during First Looks, too!).

  
  

📸 From my portfolio: I’ve photographed couples who laughed, cried, and embraced so tightly during their First Look that it set the tone for the entire day. It’s a beautiful, intimate pause in the middle of a busy schedule.

My Take

While I personally prefer the traditional aisle reveal—there’s just something timeless and emotional about it—I always remind my couples that a First Look can save time and make your day feel smoother.

Ultimately, it comes down to your personalities, your timeline, and the type of experience you want for your wedding day.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the anticipation of the traditional reveal or the intimacy of a First Look, my job is to capture the authentic emotions of that moment. There’s no wrong choice—just the one that feels most true to you.

If you’re still undecided, let’s talk through your wedding timeline and vision together. I’ll share examples from my portfolio so you can see how each option plays out in real weddings.