First Look vs. Aisle Reaction: Which One Is Right for You?
At some point in wedding planning, you’ll hit this big question: do you want to see each other before the ceremony or wait until that classic walk down the aisle? There’s no right or wrong answer here, and both can be just as meaningful. A first look gives you the freedom to design a moment that's private, quiet, and completely your own - whether that’s exchanging letters, praying together, or just embracing each other before the day really takes off. The aisle reaction, on the other hand, carries all the traditional weight, that heart-pounding anticipation, and the big, cinematic moment of locking eyes in front of everyone just before you say "I do." Both are beautiful, but the important thing is deciding what feels most you.
The Emotional Experience
The first look is often tearful, grounding, and genuinely sweet. It’s your own pocket of calm before the whirlwind. You can soak in the moment together, take a deep breath, and really connect before all the ceremony buzz begins. This moment often reflects the vibe of the couple - I’ve documented first looks that are so heartfelt and moving and others that are joyful and full of celebratory energy before the rush of the ceremony begins.
The aisle reaction has its own deeply meaningful feeling to it. The build-up, the music, the full room holding its breath - there’s drama, adrenaline, and a rush of emotion that’s hard to replicate. This moment can be just as sweet, heartfelt, and tearful as a first look, but there is a different kind of electric energy that comes from all eyes being on you. It’s equally as beautiful as a private first look, but the emotion in this moment is entirely its own.
How do you want to feel in that moment? Centered and calm in private? Or swept up in the energy of the ceremony?
This couple at Mountain View Ranch in Pine, Colorado had both an emotional first look and emotional ceremony entrance.
Timeline Flexibility
A first look opens up the rest of your day in such a beautiful way. You can take most (if not all) of your portraits before the ceremony, which means you’ll get to enjoy your cocktail hour your way and spend more of the day together.
This is one thing I didn’t realize until after my own wedding. My biggest regret about not doing a first look was that you only spend about half of the day with your person. Looking back, I wish I had those extra hours with my husband before everything flew by. We also did not have any alone time together.
Every couple is different, though, and that’s why it’s important to consider all the possibilities! If you choose to wait, just know that portraits and family photos will all happen post-ceremony. That part of the day can feel a little more packed and tiring, but it’s absolutely doable with the right plan. As your photographer, I help structure timelines around either route to make sure everything flows smoothly and stress stays low!
Privacy vs Tradition
If you're craving a safe, quiet space to feel all your feelings, talk, laugh, or cry before the day really starts, a first look gives you that. It’s especially sweet for private vows, exchanging letters, or inviting a few close loved ones to share in the moment. You can shape the experience to feel as intimate and personal as you want it to be.
There’s also something undeniably timeless about the tradition of seeing your partner for the first time as you walk down the aisle. It’s the classic moment so many have imagined since they were kids. The emotions within that split second are deeply personal, and every couple experiences it in their own way depending on who they are and how it all hits them in that unforgettable instant.
So what feels most you: something intentional and designed around your connection, or something traditional with that iconic moment when time seems to stand still?
Post-first look moments at The Barn at Ackerhurst Dairy Farm in Bennington, Nebraska.
What Do the Photos Feel Like?
First look photos usually lean into the soft, tender, romantic side of the story (though they can be as fun and playful as you want!). The emotion is raw, but the setting is calm. You’re in your own little bubble of love and anticipation.
Aisle reaction photos, on the other hand, are full of atmosphere. Big smiles, teary eyes, unfiltered emotions. It’s a moment that feels both heart-stirring and cinematic.
Both are beautiful, and neither is “better” - they just carry different energies.
Stunning outdoor wedding at Happy Hollow Country Club in Omaha, Nebraska. This couple had a first look prior to the ceremony.
What Matters Most: Feeling Present
No matter which route you choose, the most important thing is that you feel present. That you're not just going through the motions, but really grounding yourself in the moment and soaking it all in. Whether you’re tucked away in a quiet space together or locking eyes in front of all your guests, this is your day - your moment.
Choose the experience that lets you feel most like you.
Ready to start dreaming up your wedding day? I would love to hear your vision!