Pro: Ability to take the bulk of your photos together before the ceremony. Have you been looking forward to your cocktail hour food and drinks? Taking pictures before the ceremony means you will have more time to enjoy all you picked out for cocktail hour! Then after the ceremony, there will be just a few more photos to take before you can fully relax and enjoy your reception. Be sure to pick a designated hidden spot for the first look photos, so it can be a private moment that is not interrupted or seen by guests.
Con: No first look at the altar. If you have been dreaming about the dramatic effect of the first look at the altar, we don’t blame you! The suspense and emotion behind delaying the first look can add so much to the ceremony. Plus, if you’re really wanting your partner to cry… seeing you for the first time at the top of the aisle is the way to get the tears! *Be sure to work with your photographer to get the best timeline for taking ‘I Do’ photos after the ceremony in a timely manner!
Pro: Can ease the nerves. Being nervous and jittery on your wedding day is normal, but if you are so nervous that you cannot enjoy it… a first look may be the way to go. Seeing your partner can ease your nerves and allow you to be more present and calm during your ceremony.
Con: Having other people around could add to the day of stress. Clear communication with your photographer and videographer is necessary in order for them to plan and execute it smoothly. If you and your partner are both introverted, having them watch and film the first look could make you more nervous. One solution we encourage is telling your photographers and videographers to capture the moment from far away so that it is still private and special. This allows you to react and say what you want without worrying that everyone is listening. Let your wedding party know that you’re having a private first look, in case they were hoping to watch.
Pro: You get your tears out before the ceremony. There may be a few tears still at the ceremony… or many tears, but if you are prone to be a crier this could be a good way to get out some of those emotions before the ceremony. Plus, there will be plenty of time for makeup touch-ups before the ceremony.
Con: You have to arrive at the venue and be ready earlier. Taking the majority of your photos before the ceremony means you and your wedding party need to be up earlier and ready earlier. If the ceremony is earlier in the day, it has the potential to be a very early morning. If you or your partner are not a morning person, you might consider holding off on a first look.

If you still can’t decide…another great option: