You know those dreamy wedding portraits with the beautiful light that just scream romance? Those are golden hour photos and if you’re getting married during the summer, there’s a fairly good chance your photographer will insist you catch portraits during this very small window of opportunity.
What is Golden Hour?
Golden hour is the short period just after sunrise or, more commonly for weddings, just before sunset. During this time, the sun sits lower in the sky, creating a soft, warm glow that’s incredibly flattering for photographs.
Why is Golden Hour so Important for Wedding Photos?
Golden hour wraps everything in a beautiful golden light that feels natural, romantic and timeless. It’s one of the reasons so many of those magazine-worthy wedding portraits have such a magical feel—they’ve been taken at exactly the right time of day.
How Long Does Golden Hour Last?
Golden hour portraits rarely take more than 15 to 20 minutes. Your photographer will often keep an eye on the light throughout the day and let you know when it’s time to slip outside. Guests are usually busy chatting, grabbing another drink or enjoying the evening entertainment, so most won’t even notice you’ve disappeared.
Timing is Everything
Golden hour doesn’t happen at the same time every day, and during the height of summer it can be surprisingly late. That’s why it’s worth discussing timings with your photographer before the wedding.
The Investment is Worth It
Think of golden hour as a tiny investment of time that delivers some of the most beautiful photographs from your entire wedding day. When you look back through your album years from now, those glowing, romantic portraits will almost certainly be among your favourites.
Real Talk: If you're getting married during the summer, make sure to discuss golden hour timings with your photographer to ensure you capture those magical moments. It's a small investment of time that will deliver big results.
Source: Weddings Online
