First Look or First Touch? What Every Couple Should Know
One of the most exciting decisions couples face on their wedding day is how and when they want to see each other for the first time. Two popular options are the first look and the first touch. As wedding planners, we’ve seen how both can create unforgettable moments, each offering a unique experience and vibe. Here’s everything you need to know to help you decide which option feels right for your wedding day.
First Look
A first look is when the couple sees each other privately before the ceremony, usually with the photo and video team capturing the moment.
Pros:
Allows you to get a large portion (or even almost all) of your photos done before the ceremony, reducing stress afterward. This includes couple portraits, wedding party shots, and immediate family photos, leaving only extended family photos to be captured post-ceremony.
Provides flexibility to join cocktail hour or enjoy some private time together after extended family photos are done post-ceremony.
Creates a private, intimate moment where you can truly connect without the pressure of an audience.
Can help calm nerves before walking down the aisle.
More freedom to take photos around the venue since guests have not arrived yet.
Cons:
Requires getting ready earlier in the morning since the photo/video team will likely arrive sooner to capture everything before the ceremony.
You won’t experience the raw, in-the-moment reaction of seeing your person for the first time at the ceremony itself.
Some couples feel the emotions can seem slightly “staged” under the photographer’s guidance.
Photographer: Madison Frazier
First Touch
A first touch happens when the couple connects without seeing each other by holding hands, exchanging letters, or sharing a private moment before the ceremony.
Pros:
Builds anticipation and tension for the ceremony, making the “walking down the aisle” moment even more emotional.
Keeps the raw reaction for the ceremony intact, which can be incredibly powerful for both the couple and guests.
Offers a quiet, meaningful way to share a moment together without distractions.
Perfect for couples who want to maintain tradition while still enjoying a private connection beforehand.
Can create beautiful, candid photos that capture genuine emotion during the ceremony.
Cons:
Family, couple, and full wedding party photos happen after the ceremony, which can create a rushed timeline.
You will miss out on joining cocktail hour, as you will need the full cocktail hour to capture all of the photos.
Less flexibility for lighting and setting, since the schedule revolves around the ceremony.
Limited options for where you can take photos since your guests might be in the background at cocktail hour and your media team will need to work around them.
Photographer: Brogen Davis
What Feels Right for You as a Couple?
Ultimately, the choice between a first look and first touch comes down to your personalities and priorities. If you want a calm, private moment and more flexibility for photos, a first look may be perfect. If you want to preserve the suspense and emotional reaction for the ceremony itself, a first touch might be the way to go.
Both options create unforgettable memories and allow you to connect with your partner before officially saying “I do.” Talk through your priorities, consider your timeline, and choose the option that feels most authentic to you. Your wedding day is all about your love story, make sure your first moment together reflects that.
