Photographers often suggest starting outdoor sessions late in the day. The reason is the light. In the hour or so after sunrise and before sunset, the sun sits low in the sky and its light is softer and warmer.
What golden hour light does
Low sun travels through more of the atmosphere, so harsh contrast drops and colours warm up. Shadows under the eyes become gentler, skin looks natural, and backlight can give a soft glow around hair and leaves.
Midday is harder, not impossible
At noon the sun is high and bright, which creates squinting and dark shadows. When a midday time cannot be avoided, open shade under trees or beside a building gives softer results.
Planning your session
- Check the sunset time for your date: it changes a lot through the year.
- Start about an hour and a half before sunset to allow time to warm up.
- Have a plan for clouds: overcast light is soft and even, and still lovely.
- Bring a warm layer, because the temperature drops quickly at dusk.
We plan the start time together when we confirm your location, so you can simply arrive and enjoy the light.