Tradition runs deep in Midwest weddings, and as a Minnesota wedding photographer, I’ve captured countless celebrations that prove it. One tradition that many couples hold dear is not seeing each other before the ceremony. So inevitably, when it comes time to help my clients plan their wedding day timeline, they’re always torn between following tradition or doing a first look.
I figured I’d share my thoughts based on experience from two unique perspectives: as the photographer capturing the moment and as a bride who lived it. My advice? Consider doing a first look, especially if you don’t have strong feelings either way about maintaining that particular tradition
If you’re on the fence about doing a wedding first look, here are five compelling reasons why you might want to consider it – straight from someone who’s been on both sides of the camera.
The most significant regret I had was missing precious time with our guests. When you choose to do a first look, you can complete most of your formal portraits, couple photos, and even some family portraits before the ceremony begins.
This means once you say “I do,” you’re free to join your cocktail hour and reception immediately – no rushing through photos while your guests wait with empty champagne glasses. Your wedding day timeline becomes about celebrating, not catching up on photography.
Despite what many couples believe, a first look doesn’t diminish the emotional impact of seeing each other at the ceremony. Instead, it offers a rare private moment on your wedding day that’s just for you two.
Without dozens of eyes watching and cameras flashing, many couples find they can be more authentic in their reactions and truly savor that special moment together. As a Minnesota wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed countless first looks, and the genuine emotions are often more relaxed and natural than ceremony reactions.
Wedding photographers often advocate for first looks because the lighting is more controlled, and you look your absolute freshest. Your hair and makeup are perfect, your dress is pristine, and you haven’t been crying happy tears yet.
Plus, without the time crunch of fitting all photos between the ceremony and reception, you can take a more relaxed approach to your portraits. This results in more natural, beautiful images that truly capture your authentic selves – exactly the timeless, natural style couples love.
Many couples report that seeing each other before the ceremony actually helped calm their wedding day nerves. That built-up anticipation can create intense anxiety, especially for camera-shy couples.
Sharing a quiet moment together can center you both before the public celebration begins. It’s like having your best friend there to calm your nerves before the big moment.
A first look gives your wedding day timeline crucial breathing room. Minnesota weather can be unpredictable, vendors sometimes run late, and unexpected moments happen (which often make the best photos!).
When you’re not racing against the sunset for golden hour photos or keeping hungry guests waiting, your entire day feels less rushed and more enjoyable. This flexibility allows you to be more present and actually enjoy the wedding day you’ve worked so hard to plan.
Looking back at my own wedding day, I treasure the traditions we kept, but I can’t help wondering how much more relaxed and present I would have felt if we had opted for a first look. That missed hour of celebration with our loved ones is something we can’t get back.
While every couple should choose what feels right for them, consider how a first look might allow you to actually enjoy more of the moments that matter most. After all, your wedding photos should capture joy, not stress.
As a Minnesota-based wedding photographer who’s passionate about capturing authentic moments and creating timeless images, I’d love to help you plan a wedding day timeline that works for your unique vision, whether that includes a first look or not.
Let’s chat about how we can make your wedding day photography stress-free and magical. I work with only a limited number of couples each year to ensure you get my full attention and care.
to schedule your consultation fill out my contact form https://odumaphotography.com/contact and let’s start planning your dream day together!
Serving couples in Rochester, Minneapolis, La Crosse, and destinations beyond with natural, timeless wedding photography that brings your Pinterest dreams to life..
I am Mercy, and my dream is to make your dreams come true by serving you and capturing your priceless moments. My clients treasure beautiful, elevated, clean, down-to-earth photos—but they're looking for so much more than just pretty pictures. This means authentic, genuine emotions and relationships are prioritized above all else.
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