Should you do a first look? Charlotte, NC Wedding Photographer

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by CATEGORY

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Destination wedding photographer fascinated by stories & people. This blog is the home for some of my favorite things — from weddings, engagement sessions & more personal things. 

i'm KELSIE

Have you been dreaming of the moment your groom sees you walking down the aisle since you could remember? Maybe you haven’t thought about it much – and that’s okay, too!

You may even feel that the moment you see each other for the first time on your wedding day, you want it just the two of you. Whichever you decide is absolutely perfect. Here are some of my thoughts to help you decide what is best for you!

Doing a first look will allow the two of you to enjoy the day together before it all starts. It gives us more controlled time. If you have a large family or wedding party, for portraits it can be a great option to take those photos before the ceremony, allowing for a shorter cocktail hour after your ceremony.  

No first look means you’ll be seeing each other for the first time as you come walking down the aisle. A lot of people cherish this special moment. Without a first look, you will take most of your formal images after the ceremony so you will need to plan for extra time for this during cocktail hour. 


Often times, capturing a first look allows us to have couple photos earlier in the day in addition to sunset hour. This can be a great option if you want different lighting as well. Earlier photos will give us more bright light and sunset is softer lighting. 

Regardless of whichever you choose, each moment is equally special. I am a firm believer that there is no right or wrong choice when it comes to a first look. Your wedding day is meant to spent how YOU want it! Either way, I will capture it all and all the joy that comes with it!