Why Golden Hour is the Best Time for Outdoor Photography

As a photographer, one of the most common questions I get is, "When is the best time to schedule our outdoor session?" My answer is always the same—Golden Hour! If you’ve ever scrolled through dreamy, glowing portraits and wondered how that magic happens, the secret is in the light.


What is Golden Hour?

Golden Hour is the period shortly after sunrise and just before sunset when the sun is lower in the sky. This creates a soft, warm, and diffused light that adds a beautiful glow to photos, reducing harsh shadows and giving skin tones a natural radiance. Unlike the midday sun, which can be too harsh and cause unflattering shadows, Golden Hour light is gentle and flattering.


Why Golden Hour is Perfect for Photography

There are so many reasons why I recommend Golden Hour for outdoor sessions. Here are a few of my top ones:

  • Soft, Warm Lighting: Golden Hour provides a natural filter that enhances skin tones and creates a gorgeous, natural glow in images.
  • Fewer Harsh Shadows: Because the sun is lower, it casts long, soft shadows rather than sharp, unflattering ones.
  • Dreamy & Romantic Feel: The golden tones add a sense of warmth, romance, and nostalgia, making portraits look timeless.
  • More Depth & Dimension: The angled sunlight adds depth to images, creating stunning highlights and shadows that enhance the overall aesthetic.
  • Beautiful Backgrounds: Golden Hour brings out the natural beauty in landscapes, whether it's a field, a park, or an urban setting. Colors appear richer, and backgrounds become more dynamic.

Tips for Making the Most of Golden Hour

If you're planning a Golden Hour session, here are some tips to ensure you get the most stunning results:

  1. Arrive on Time: Golden Hour is fleeting! It typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour, so arriving promptly is essential.
  2. Choose the Right Outfit: Soft, neutral, and earthy tones photograph beautifully during this time. Flowy dresses, textured fabrics, and subtle patterns add to the dreamy feel.
  3. Trust the Process: Sometimes, the best shots come from movement, candid laughter, and embracing the natural light.
  4. Be Flexible: Weather plays a role in lighting. Even on overcast days, Golden Hour still provides a soft, flattering glow.
  5. Pick the Perfect Location: Open fields, tree-lined paths, or waterfronts work beautifully with Golden Hour light, allowing for stunning backdrops.


Behind-the-Scenes of a Golden Hour Session

I always love capturing behind-the-scenes moments during Golden Hour sessions. The way the light dances around my clients, the laughter as families play together, the way couples naturally fall into each other's arms—it’s truly magical. If you want to experience this beautiful time of day for your own portraits, I’d love to help create something unforgettable for you.


Ready to book your Golden Hour session? Let’s chat and plan the perfect time to capture your special moments in the most magical light of the day!

Mother and child share joyful moment in golden sunset field with wildflowers.
Family of four poses together in wildflower field during sunset.
Two children standing together in blooming wildflower meadow at sunset.
Playful moment between parent and child with shoulders ride in blooming meadow at sunset.
Young child in striped shirt poses in field with purple wildflowers at sunset.
Tender moment between parent and child sitting in wildflower field at golden hour.