First Look Wedding Photos: A Photographer’s Take on Whether It’s Right for You

Your wedding day is full of emotion — excitement, anticipation, and maybe a few nerves! One of the biggest questions I’m often asked as a Devon and Somerset wedding photographer is whether to do a first look or wait until walking down the aisle.There’s no right or wrong choice, but as someone who’s captured many First Look Wedding Photos across beautiful venues in Devon and Somerset like Cockington, Tawstock Court, and The Hartnoll Hotel, I’ve seen how this moment can completely transform the day.

The Pros of First Look Wedding Photos

If you’re both feeling nervous, a first look can be a wonderful way to calm your nerves before walking down the aisle and saying “I do.”It’s an incredibly private and intimate moment between just the two of you — no eyes on you, no pressure, just a deep breath together before the celebrations begin.

Many couples tell me afterwards that it helped them feel more relaxed and present during the ceremony. And from a photographer’s point of view, First Look Wedding Photos often capture some of the most emotional, genuine reactions of the day — those tearful smiles, tight hugs, and pure joy that you’ll treasure forever.

The Cons of Doing a First Look

The main reason couples skip a first look is that they want to save that magic moment for the aisle.If you’ve always dreamed of seeing each other for the first time surrounded by loved ones, then a first look might take away a little of that build-up.

There’s also the practical side — doing a first look means you’ll need to get ready slightly earlier, and you might need to plan your day’s schedule around that. But if you love the idea of those quiet, emotional photos together before the ceremony, it can be completely worth it.

A Relaxed Alternative: The “First Touch”

If you want to keep the surprise for the aisle but still share a moment together beforehand, a first touch is the perfect compromise.

You can stand around a corner, back to back, or even hold hands without seeing each other. It’s just as intimate and emotional, giving you both the chance to connect, exchange a few words, or even read a note before the ceremony.

I’ve photographed many beautiful first touches across venues in Devon, Somerset, and the South West — from rustic barns to coastal hotels — and they always create a calm, heartwarming start to the day.

My Take as a Devon and Somerset Wedding Photographer

Every couple is different — and that’s what makes wedding photography so special.Whether you choose First Look Wedding Photos or save the magic for the aisle, what matters most is that it feels true to you.

If you’re planning your wedding in Devon, Somerset, or anywhere in the South West, I’ll help you capture those natural, relaxed, and love-filled moments exactly as they happen — so your photos tell your story beautifully.

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