One of the biggest decisions couples make while planning their wedding day is whether or not to do a first look.


As a Maine wedding photographer who's photographed more than 50 weddings, I've seen incredible days with both approaches. There isn't a right or wrong answer. It simply comes down to what feels most like you.


Understanding how each option affects your timeline can help you enjoy your day more and get the photos you're hoping for.


What is a first look?


A first look is a private moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time.


Instead of waiting until one partner walks down the aisle, you share that emotional moment earlier in the day while your photographer quietly captures it.


Many couples worry it will "take away" from the ceremony, but in my experience, that almost never happens. Walking down the aisle still feels incredibly emotional because the moment has completely different energy.


Benefits of doing a first look


A first look creates much more flexibility throughout the day. It allows you to:

  • Finish nearly all portraits before the ceremony.
  • Spend more time with guests during cocktail hour.
  • Reduce stress after the ceremony.
  • Create genuine, private moments together.
  • Capture more portraits while hair and makeup are still fresh.
  • Have extra buffer time if the schedule runs behind.


One thing couples rarely expect is how calming the first look can be. Wedding days move quickly, and having ten quiet minutes together often becomes one of their favorite memories.


First look photo checklist


Here's a typical shot list I use.


Before the first look

  • Bride getting ready
  • Bride putting on dress
  • Bride with parents
  • Bride with bridesmaids
  • Groom getting ready
  • Groom with groomsmen
  • Wedding details
  • Invitations
  • Dress
  • Shoes
  • Jewelry
  • Bouquet
  • Rings
  • Reception details (if finished)


The First Look


  • Walking toward each other
  • The reaction
  • Hugging
  • Laughing
  • Quiet moments
  • Full-length portraits
  • Wide environmental images
  • Close-up emotional images
  • Couple Portraits
  • Classic portraits
  • Walking together
  • Natural candid moments
  • Veil photos
  • Close-up details
  • Landscape portraits
  • Wedding Party
  • Entire wedding party
  • Bride with bridesmaids
  • Groom with groomsmen
  • Individual groups
  • Fun candid photos
  • Immediate Family
  • Parents
  • Siblings
  • Grandparents
  • Entire immediate family


Sample first look timeline


This timeline is built around the ceremony time. In Maine, it is important to account for the time of year and the lighting you will have available throughout the day. For this sample timeline, I am assuming a late summer wedding including the first look and taking advantage of daytime for most of your portraits.


  • 12:00 PM Hair and makeup complete
  • 1:00 PM Bride gets dressed
  • 1:30 PM First look
  • 1:45 PM Couple portraits
  • 2:30 PM Wedding party
  • 3:00 PM Family photos
  • 4:00 PM Ceremony
  • 4:30 PM Cocktail hour while you relax
  • 5:30 PM Reception
  • 6:45 – 7:45 PM Optional sunset photos


Notice how after the ceremony you're free to celebrate instead of rushing through family portraits? I also love that this timeline allows you to step back outside with your new spouse for personal, intimate sunset photos!


If spending time with guests is important, if you're planning a fall wedding with limited daylight, or if you'd like a more relaxed experience, a first look is often a great choice.


At the end of the day, there isn't a wrong decision! My job is to help create a timeline that fits your priorities.


Planning your Maine wedding?


If you're looking for a Maine wedding photographer who helps build stress-free timelines while capturing natural, timeless images, I'd love to chat.


Contact us today to learn more about wedding collections and availability!