As a Catholic wedding photographer, one of the most common questions I get from couples is: Should we do a first look? Some couples love the idea, others feel unsure, especially if they want to save the moment of seeing each other for the walk down the aisle. That’s where the “First Touch” comes in—a prayerful, heartfelt alternative that allows couples to connect before the ceremony without compromising tradition.


I’ve photographed many couples who chose a first touch, and every single time it’s been moving, sacred, and incredibly photogenic. Let’s dive into what this moment is, why you might consider it, and how it could fit beautifully into your Catholic wedding day!

What is a First Touch?


A first look is when couples see each other before the ceremony, often in a private moment orchestrated by the photographer. It’s beautiful in its own way, but for couples who want to uphold the Catholic tradition of the groom seeing his bride for the first time during the processional, a First Look doesn’t always feel right.


That's where a first touch comes in!


A first touch, keeps that tradition in mind. You won’t lock eyes just yet—you’ll just share a quiet connection through touch, prayer, or words. Think of it as a middle ground: a chance to settle your nerves and ground yourselves in your love and faith without giving away the magic of the aisle moment. A quiet, intentional moment where you and your fiancé come together before the ceremony—without actually seeing each other. With a first touch, brides and grooms can share a prayer, exchange letters, or simply talk for a few minutes while still saving that emotional first look for the aisle. It’s a tender balance between intimacy and anticipation. You get to feel the comfort of your future spouse’s presence while preserving the beauty of tradition.

A person sits in a wooden church pew gazing upward at stained glass windows in an ornate historic chapel interior.

Who Should Consider a First Touch?


A first touch might be perfect for you if:


  • You’re a Catholic couple who wants to keep the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the altar.


  • You love the idea of grounding yourselves in prayer before the sacrament of marriage.


  • You’re looking for unique wedding photos that capture the anticipation, joy, and reverence of your day.


I’ve found that couples who are especially faith-centered love this option because it creates a sacred pause before everything begins—a moment that’s just for the two of you and God.

See Arick and Elizabeth's beautiful first touch in the Adoration Chapel.

What to Do During a First Touch


There’s no one “right” way to do a first touch, which is what makes it so special. Here are some meaningful ideas I’ve seen couples choose:


  • Pray together. A decade of the Rosary, a spontaneous prayer, or simply asking God’s blessing on your marriage is such a powerful way to begin your day.


  • Exchange letters or private vows. If you’ve written each other letters or private vows, a first touch is the perfect time to read them aloud.


  • Hold hands in silence. Sometimes, no words are needed. Just standing hand in hand, taking a deep breath, and soaking in the moment can calm all those pre-ceremony jitters.


  • Share a laugh. It doesn’t have to be serious! I’ve seen couples crack jokes, giggle nervously, or whisper “see you at the altar.”
A couple shares a playful moment in a church pew beneath a decorative stained glass window.

Other First Look Alternatives


So you want to save seeing your spouse for the wedding-- but do you still want the thrill and surprise of a first look with SOMEONE?


I have a list of fun alternatives of people you can have a first look with!


Check out these unique people to share a First Look with

Final Thoughts + A Photographer’s Perspective


From behind my camera, first touch moments are some of my absolute favorites. There’s so much emotion in the way hands reach for each other, in the nervous laughter or the whispered prayer. It’s an unforgettable pause in the middle of a fast-paced wedding day, and it translates beautifully into photos you’ll cherish forever.


If you’re planning your Catholic wedding and wondering how to honor tradition while still sharing a private connection, the first touch could be exactly what you’re looking for.


Looking for a photographer who understands the balance of faith, tradition, and heartfelt storytelling? I’d love to walk with you on this journey!