That is THE question many brides grapple with. Are you a traditionalist, who’s always imaged locking eyes with your groom as you make your way down the aisle? Or would you prefer a more intimate moment for that first glance (well, as intimate as it can be with a couple of photographers hanging around)? While we can’t solve this conundrum for you, here are some pros of each to keep in mind. 

 Pro: Great Emotion and Cute Pics First-look photos are often full of palpable emotions.
They can be an incredible document of exactly how you were feeling on that day. 

 Pro: Have a Moment Alone Together 

 While there might be a photographer shooting away, a first look before the ceremony will still be much more intimate than one at the altar. These shots are usually taken a little wider, meaning your photographer won’t be too close for comfort. Likely you’ll be so fixed on your spouse-to-be anyway, that you won’t even notice the little snap-snap-snaps in the background. After the photos are taken, the photographer will step ever farther back and give you two a moment. 

Con: Even Earlier Start to Your Day 

 If you plan to do your photos pre-ceremony, that means you’ll have to start (and finish!) getting ready even earlier. To those ladies already planning to start their day at 7 AM, maybe this isn’t for you! We want you to still be awake by the time the speeches start. However, if you’re getting ready process isn’t a multi-hour affair, having the photos done pre-ceremony can make the day easier on you. 

 Pro: More Time with Your Guests 

 Often the couple portraits and bridal party shots happen during the cocktail hour. But if you get these done ahead of the ceremony you’ll have all the extra time to spend mingling with your guests. Not to mention, you won’t miss those delicious hors d’oeuvres you can’t stop thinking about. 

 Pro or Con: You Want Your Photos Taken During the Best Light 

 This one really depends on the time of year, and the timing of your day. If you’re having a June wedding and do a first look at 3 PM in London, Ontario, the light is still going to be harsh (unless you luck out and it’s overcast). Your photographer will work with the light, and find the best directions, but they aren’t miracle workers. On the other hand, if your December wedding ceremony in Toronto finished at 5 PM, there won’t be any daylight left for photos afterward. While this is fine too, it’s important to think about how you want your photos to look (PS. Photographers love Golden Hour, the time just before sunset with the light is *chef’s kiss*) 

 Con: You’ve Always Imagined That Classic Walking Down the Aisle First Moment 

 Some brides aren’t as stuck on this as others. If your quintessential wedding moment in your head is looking at your groom as he sees you for the very first time as a bride, maybe a first look just isn’t for you. Go with your heart on this point. A first look might make your day go smoother, but if it’s not what you really want deep down, don’t do it. And if you do decide on a first look, that won’t make your walk down the aisle any less special. It might not be the first time you and your future love have seen each other wedding-ready, but it will still be the first time you walk down the aisle to marry them! 

 Some More Suggestions! 

- Take most of your photos pre-ceremony, and then have your photographer grab you for a few more when the light is perfect later on. This might also give you a chance to try a different location at your venue. 

- We always suggest doing any family formals AFTER the ceremony. Pre-ceremony might work well for portraits and bridal party photos, but it can be a real headache for larger family formals. Theoretically, all the guests have made it to the wedding by the time the ceremony ends but expecting Cousin Eric to arrive an hour before it begins is rolling the dice.

Read more wedding tips here on our blog.