The Case for a First Look

One of the most common concerns couples share with me is whether a first look will take away from the emotion of walking down the aisle. It’s a big question nestled in with all of the other big questions. So here is my humble opinion on “breaking traditions” or at least the tradition of the first look being when the bride is walking down the aisle.

What I’ve seen is that a first look doesn’t diminish that moment. It actually allows it to be more present, grounded, and meaningful.

A first look gives you the opportunity to experience that first wave of emotion privately. There’s no audience, no expectation, no pressure to perform a reaction. You get to breathe, connect, and be fully with each other before the ceremony begins.

By the time you walk down the aisle, the nerves have softened.
You’re not carrying everything at once.
You’re able to be present — and that presence shows up beautifully in photographs.

From a logistical standpoint, a first look also creates an incredibly smooth and flexible timeline.

Your makeup is at its freshest.
Portraits are unhurried and calm.
And after the ceremony, instead of disappearing for photos, you’re free to enjoy cocktail hour with your guests.

It also gives us built-in buffer time. If something runs late earlier in the day — which is completely normal — we’re not scrambling or stressed. We have space to catch up on photos without sacrificing the experience.

A first look doesn’t replace tradition.
It simply gives your wedding day room to breathe — emotionally and practically.

And that’s when the most genuine, timeless moments happen.

So What is the Right Decision?

Every wedding day unfolds differently, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — only what feels right for you.

If you’d like guidance on your wedding timeline, your first look decision, or how to create space for meaningful moments throughout the day, I’d love to help.

Visit www.LisaStaffPhoto.com to learn more about my wedding photography services in Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Savannah, or to start a conversation about your wedding day.