Why Timing Matters in Outdoor Photography

The Golden Hour Glow-Up

It’s Not Magic (But It Looks Like It)

Ever scrolled through family photos and found yourself pausing on one that just feels different — soft, glowing, almost cinematic? That dreamy light that seems to wrap around the people in the photo and make everything feel a little more magical?

It’s not a special filter. It’s not Photoshop. And no, it’s not some kind of photographer-only sorcery (though I’ll take the compliment).

It’s timing.

Specifically, it’s golden hour….. and it’s the secret sauce behind that radiant glow you’ve probably admired without even realizing what made it feel so special.

Today, I’m breaking down exactly what golden hour is, why I’m obsessed with it (and think you should be too), and why I’ll always recommend scheduling your outdoor family session around it. Because yes, it really does make that much of a difference.

What Is Golden Hour, Exactly?

Golden hour is that short window of time about 1-2 hours before sunset, when the light is low, soft, and absolutely magical.

Instead of harsh overhead sun and deep shadows, you get warm tones, creamy highlights, and soft edges. Everything is bathed in a golden glow (hence the name), and it makes your photos feel like a daydream.

It’s not just about looking pretty (though it definitely does). This light is flattering. It smooths skin, enhances colors, and creates that gorgeous backlight that turns an everyday moment into something frame-worthy.

It’s nature’s filter, and one you definitely want in your photos.

Why Golden Hour Makes Photos That Much Better

Here’s the thing: light is everything in photography.

You could be wearing the perfect outfit, standing in a beautiful location, and still not love your photos… if the light is wrong.

Midday sun, while great for a picnic, is one of the toughest times to shoot. It’s harsh, it creates unflattering shadows, and it tends to make people squint. (You know that face where everyone looks like they’re staring into the sun? Because they are? Yeah, we skip that.)

Golden hour, on the other hand, is pure magic. If you’ve ever seen one of my fall family sessions bathed in that dreamy light, you know exactly what I mean.

It wraps around you. It brings out rich skin tones. It adds depth and dimension. It creates movement and emotion. It transforms a good photo into one that makes you stop and feel something.

So when I’m gently nudging you toward a 6:45 PM start time? This is why. You’ll thank me later.

But What About the Kids’ Bedtime?!

Ah, the million-dollar question. And I get it, the idea of keeping your kids up past their usual bedtime for photos sounds... risky at best.

But here’s the good news: most kids rise to the occasion when we make it feel like an adventure.

I’ll keep the session moving, playful, and light. You bring snacks, maybe even let them run barefoot, and I’ll work fast to capture all the connection and joy before anyone has time to get cranky. (Need help choosing outfits that photograph beautifully in golden light? Check out my Pinterest board for outfit inspiration; it’s full of looks that shine in that dreamy glow.)

Plus, there’s always the option of a sunrise session — still golden hour, but with a little caffeine in hand. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect for early risers or families with littles who naturally wake up with the sun anyway.

And if you’re truly worried? Let’s talk it through. I’m all about working with your family’s rhythm.

What If the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate?

Golden hour is ideal, but real life doesn’t always play by the golden rules, and that’s okay.

If it’s overcast, don’t worry: cloudy skies actually create beautifully soft, diffused light that photographs so well. No harsh shadows, no squinting — just smooth, even lighting that flatters every face.

If it’s sunny earlier than expected or the clouds suddenly part mid-session, I’ll adapt. We might shift to a shadier spot or reposition to keep that dreamy light working in our favor.

You don’t need to stress about the forecast. I’ve got you covered (literally and figuratively). Rain or shine, I’ll make the light work for us.

Golden Hour Changes With the Seasons. Here's What That Means for You

One thing to keep in mind? Golden hour isn’t a fixed time; it shifts with the seasons.

In early spring or fall, golden hour can start around 5:30–6:30 PM, which is super doable if you’ve got little ones with early bedtimes. The light is still gorgeous, and you’re home before anyone has a meltdown.

In summer, golden hour can stretch as late as 7:30–8:30 PM. Which means if your child turns into a pumpkin at 7pm, that can be tricky, but not impossible. A few tweaks (a later nap, snacks, maybe a chill day leading up) can help, and I’ll work fast to maximize that light and keep things moving.

Looking for an easy, beautifully timed option this summer? My summer mini sessions are designed with golden hour and family schedules in mind — short, sweet, and perfectly timed for that dreamy light.

Want to skip the later start time altogether? Consider booking in the shoulder seasons. Spring and fall are a golden hour sweet spot, with dreamy light and comfy temps, plus early enough to keep everyone happy. Fall mini sessions are one of my favorites for a reason; early golden hour, cozy layers, and that crisp autumn air that adds something special to every photo.

If you want help choosing the best time of year for your golden hour family session, just ask. I’m always happy to help you plan it around both the light and your family’s rhythm.

And if you’re not sure what time golden hour will fall on your date? Don’t worry, I’ve got all the tools to figure that out for you. When we plan your session, I’ll walk you through the best timing options so everything feels easy and intentional.

Trust the Timing; It’s Worth It

I know life is busy. You’ve got carpools, nap schedules, dinner to cook. So when I suggest a time that feels a little inconvenient, it’s never random.

It’s intentional.

Because golden hour doesn’t just make your photos look good; it makes them feel good. That glow you see in your gallery? It’s not just the light. It’s the energy, the ease, the way everything just works when the timing is right.

So let’s chase the light. Let’s schedule your outdoor family session at the time when everything aligns and the world feels golden for a minute.

Got questions about timing or your ideal season? Let’s chat!