STEP 01
The best time of day to do photos is starting/ending within 1-2 hours of sunset or sunrise. Of course, this is based on the assumption the sun is visible. So basically the light gets worse as you approach noon from either direction (sunrise or sunset). Sure, we can shoot at 10am or 3pm, but do know there is a tradeoff with the quality of light. We may get lucky and have clouds roll in, but if we have cloudless skies, we will have to duck for shade, and it will affect the quality of light in your images.
I would love to say “Sure! We can shoot whenever you want”, but in order to create the images you see and love, you have to understand that light plays a very large factor. So just trust the photographer.
So this means if sunset is 5pm, I would want to start our Session latest by around 4:15pm so that we end by 5:15pm. If sunrise is 5am the latest we would want to start is 6am or else you risk losing that dreamy sun. Make sense?
Search your sunrise/sunset time here
STEP 02
Golden hour is considered the best time for outdoor photography because of the soft, warm, and flattering natural light it provides. This occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset when the sun is lower in the sky. The light during golden hour creates a beautiful, dreamy glow that enhances skin tones, reduces harsh shadows, and gives photos a magical, romantic feel. It also allows for stunning, soft backlighting, which can add depth and a glowing halo effect, making the overall composition more visually appealing.
STEP 03
The hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. are considered the worst time to shoot outdoor photography because the sun is at its highest point in the sky. This results in harsh, direct light that creates strong shadows, squinting, and unflattering highlights. The bright midday sun can make it difficult to achieve soft, even lighting, which is ideal for portraits. Additionally, the high angle of the sun can cause unflattering shadows under the eyes, chin, and nose, leading to a less natural, less flattering look.
STEP 04
If you choose a heavily wooded area then I would need to move the start time up. This is why I can’t tell you a start time until you finalize your location. If it’s an open area (like water or a field) I need to start as late as possible and head into dusk. Open areas as I’m fighting harsh light with nothing to filter the light. If it’s heavily wooded, I have the opposite issue with dark shadows and the sun not being able to penetrate the canopy to light you.
bUT MY BABY NAPS/FEEDS/IS CRANKY DURING THAT TIME
The timing of your session is definitely something we need to balance. Typically, kids are as happy as can be first thing in the morning, but it's the parents (and honestly, me too) who are usually a bit groggy before that first cup of coffee kicks in. But trust me, it's worth it! You only do photos a couple of times a year, and the combination of beautiful light, a happy baby, and an empty park (no traffic or parking issues – yay!) makes it totally worth it. Sunrise and sunset are definitely the best times of the day for photos.
If sunrise isn’t an option, then sunset is your next best bet—it’s the warmer, more relaxed choice. The parks may be busier, but I absolutely love shooting with this light, especially when the sun dips below the horizon. Dusk brings a peaceful, moody, and dramatic vibe. While most babies might not make it to this time of day, it's perfect for engagement or maternity sessions. Seriously, look at the images below—don’t you agree that sunset is the absolute best time for photos?
If your baby sleeps early, a good tip is to do a winter/early spring session so catch the good light before your baby falls asleep.
There is only so many sunsets to go around
what do you do if you get rained out?
See here
Compare photos with me!
This is not my preferred lighting condition and this is precisely why. This session was from 9-11am while I was learning light and composition. Notice how Mom is squinting and the sun is causing harsh shadows on her face? We ended up ducking for shade to get baby out of the Sun and the light still bled on her face causing patches that were not fixable post edit.
versus this session
Both of these session were taken in October 2024. Notice how this session the light wraps around the model and highlights her features in a softer fashion. No squinting, no ducking for cover. There are some patches of light on her skin and clothes, but we were in the woods and that happens!
