There is a moment just before sunset where everything changes, The light gets softer, the shadows lengthen, the air even feels golden. Even the most ordinary scene becomes magical. That’s golden hour for you! If you’ve been looking at a photo in my portfolio and thought, “How is it glowing like that?” This is the secret sauce.
What is Golden Hour?
Golden hour is the hour just after sunrise or just before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. The light tends to be warmer, softer and more flattering. Shooting into the setting sun lets the light wrap around you and gives that beautiful backlit glow to your hair, skin tones look rich and glowing and even a patch of grass can sparkle like a fairytale.
Why I plan my sessions around Golden Hour
When I’m photographing real Toronto and East York families (those messy, wiggly little humas included) light can add so much to the mood.
Flattering light for even skin tone
Less squinting and harsh raccoon eye shadows
A calm, dreamy vibe that helps everyone feel at ease
Different looks shooting with or against the sun for variety to the images.
Plus there’s a feeling, when everything slows down, and you’re together in that little pocket of beauty before the day ends.
Do kids do well that late in the day?
I get this question all the time! I get it! Evening can be tricky. But what I’ve found is that a little shift in dinner time, bringing snacks and by making the session relaxed and playful, kids actually thrive during golden hour and many parents are surprised by how well it goes. And when the little ones start to run out of steam it’s no big deal that’s our queue to wrap up. We can sneak some final cuddles as the sun dips behind the trees.
What if we can't shoot at golden hour?
Sometimes schedules don’t line up perfectly and that’s totally okay! I can always find us a spot that will work perfectly for our session and I know how to work with the light we have. But it’s worth thinking about. When golden hour is a possibility. It’s pure magic and I always recommend it if your routine allows.
Curious about a golden hour family photo session?
I’d love to plan a session with you to capture the warmth and connection of your family with the glow that only golden hour can bring. The kids can run, laugh and wind down with cuddles as the sun sets and you’ll walk away with photos full of heart.