First Look Wedding Photos – How to Plan It Right (And What Most Couples Get Wrong)
The first look is one of those magical moments on a wedding day – the moment when a bride and groom see each other for the first time, away from the crowd, before the ceremony begins. It can be emotional, calming, and deeply personal. But it also comes with a lot of misconceptions.
Many couples think a first look is a replacement for a photoshoot or that it will save a lot of time later in the day. The truth? Not always. If it’s not planned properly, it may not save time at all – and it definitely shouldn’t replace your main photo session. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to plan a first look right, when it can actually save time, and why it’s more than just a photo opportunity.
What Is a First Look, Really?
For me, a first look is a private, personal moment between the bride and groom. It’s not a photoshoot. It’s not a staged event. It’s a real, raw, emotional moment where you get to calm your nerves, soak it all in, and maybe even share personal vows.
When I photograph a first look, I always try to stay back. I don’t direct or pose. I want you to have that time for yourselves, without feeling like you’re performing for the camera.
And YES – I LOVE FIRST LOOKS!
Planning Your First Look: Timing is Everything
Let’s say your ceremony is at 3:30 pm at Rathsallagh House or Ballymagarvey Village. If you want a first look, it should happen by 2:00 pm at the latest.
That means:
- Hair and makeup must be finished by 1:00 p.m.
- You need to be dressed and ready by 1:20 pm.
- Your photographer and videographer need to be prepared by then too.
Most people don’t discuss this timeline with their makeup artist or hairdresser. That’s where delays often happen. If you’re planning a first look, make sure your morning prep runs on a schedule.
AND YES – in many cases, it’s very difficult to plan a first look if makeup or hair is delayed. If your first look is happening at the venue, guests may already start arriving, which can ruin the privacy of the moment.
Why a First Look is Not a Substitute for Your Photoshoot
A common misconception is that a first look replaces the need for couple portraits after the ceremony. That’s rarely the case.
Think about it:
- Do you want to walk down the aisle in a clean wedding dress?
- If it’s winter or the ground is damp, your photographer will need to avoid areas with grass or mud.
- Most pre-ceremony shots are static – no walking, running, or dancing across the grass.
The best, most fun, and relaxed shots – walking hand-in-hand, spinning in the golden hour light, laughing with your wedding party – usually happen after the ceremony when there’s no worry about keeping your dress pristine.
That said, if the ground is bone-dry and you’re happy to risk a little dirt, we can make magic before the ceremony. But in most cases, the first look complements your photoshoot – it doesn’t replace it.
When It Can Actually Save You Time
Now, there are exceptions – and they can work really well.
I’ve had weddings where the couple did a first look privately, and then we rolled straight into family photos before the ceremony. This only works if family members are already at the same hotel or venue and are happy to be ready early.
In those cases, the ceremony flowed beautifully into the drinks reception with zero photo interruptions. We just grabbed the bridal party and had fun for 10-15 minutes – walking, laughing, enjoying the moment. That saved time and made the couple feel much more relaxed for the rest of the day.
So yes, a first look can help if you’re organised, if your family is on-site, and if you’re happy to do some of the “formal” photos earlier in the day.
First Look vs First Touch
Not ready to fully see each other before the ceremony? A “first touch” is a lovely alternative. You hold hands around a door, or stand back-to-back and exchange a letter or a few words without actually seeing each other. It still brings that personal moment without breaking the tradition.
Like a first look, it needs to be timed carefully and planned into your schedule.
Final Thoughts
The first look is a personal decision. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. But if you do it, do it right.
- Talk to your makeup artist and hairdresser about the timeline.
- Let your photographer know what you envision.
- Don’t see it as a photo op. See it as a moment.
And remember: every wedding is different. If you’re not sure whether a first look is right for you, ask. I’m always happy to help you plan a timeline that works perfectly for your day. First look tips ONEFABDAY
Want more planning advice and real wedding inspiration? Check out my blog posts from Rathsallagh House and Ballymagarvey Village weddings – packed with tips, photos, and real moments from couples who did things their own way.
