Why Golden Hour is Everything: And why I plan every session around it

If you've ever looked at a photo and thought, “How is the light this dreamy?”—chances are, it was taken during golden hour.

Golden hour is the time shortly after sunrise or right before sunset when the sun is low in the sky and casts the most beautiful, soft, warm light. And if you’ve ever had a session with me, you know this is the time I swear by.

Here’s why golden hour is everything when it comes to capturing your family’s story:

✨ The Light Is Pure Magic

During golden hour, the light is diffused and gentle—it wraps around you instead of casting harsh shadows. It gives skin that warm, glowy tone (yes, like a natural filter!) and makes everything feel soft and romantic. It’s flattering on everyone, no matter the location or outfit.

🌿 It Brings Out the Mood in My Photography

My style is all about storytelling, connection, and warmth—and golden hour gives us that glow that makes your photos feel full of life and love. Whether we're shooting in an open field, under the trees, or at the beach, the golden light adds that emotional, nostalgic feel to your images.

💛 It Feels Like a Moment, Not Just a Photo

There’s something about this time of day that feels… peaceful. The hustle of the day is winding down, the air feels a little softer, and your kids are (usually) feeling more relaxed. It sets the perfect tone for a session that’s playful, connected, and full of real, unscripted moments.

📸 It's When the Magic Happens

I time my sessions to start about an hour before sunset so we can take advantage of the full golden hour window. We’ll start when the light is still soft and even, and finish just as the sun dips below the horizon—capturing that rich, golden glow that makes everything look like it belongs in a storybook.

🌞 It’s Worth the Late Bedtime

I get it—if you have little ones, a 6:30 or 7:00 PM start time might sound tricky. But trust me when I say: it’s worth it. Plan for a low-key day, bring some snacks, and let them run wild during the session. Some of the sweetest, most joy-filled galleries I’ve delivered happened during golden hour when kids were barefoot, a little silly, and just being themselves.

If you're booking a session with me, rest assured—I'll always guide you toward the best timing so we can make the most of that light. It's not just about getting pretty photos—it's about creating a feeling, a memory, a moment you’ll want to hang on your walls forever.

Let’s chase that golden light together.