Photography is all about creating with light, and light is probably the most important aspect of producing amazing portraits. Here we will discuss when and why golden hour is the ideal time to shoot for stunning portrait and wedding photography. Generally speaking, the best time of day for outdoor portraits is the golden hour, which is about one hour before sunset or one hour after sunrise. You can still create beautiful photos at other times though.
There’s a little secret in how photographers get that magical, perfect, flattering lighting in their outdoor portraits, and much of this is due to when the photos are taken. There is a short window of time on every sunny day called “golden hour.” This is approximately one hour before the sun sets or one hour after the sun rises. Golden hour varies by location and weather conditions. It requires bright and mostly clear skies, with few to no clouds, and a location that allows the sun to shine through or at least peek between trees and structures. Overcast days or heavily shaded locations will produce a drastically different overall look than golden hour light.
Golden hour sunlight can produce a warm and soft glow that is ideal for portrait and wedding photography. During this time of the day, the sun is low in the sky. This enables photographers to block harsh light on the subject, avoid shadows on the face, and prevent subjects from squinting; while still maintaining an overall well-exposed look.
This light tends to invoke a happy and comforting mood that is desirable for portraits. It also allows for pretty specular highlights that are present in areas of the background where light filters through the foliage.
It is typically easier for photographers, especially those using only natural light outdoors, to get quality images during golden hour. Golden hour is preferred by both beginners and seasoned professionals alike. It is important to follow these steps when photographing during golden hour.
Plan your shoot.
Scout your location beforehand and visualize your compositions so you can maximize your time when the golden hour starts. If you can’t get there early, prepare by looking at other photographers’ work in the same spot to see what’s been done.
Use apps.
Some apps list sunset times and tell you exactly where the sun will be at any given time or place. Using these golden hour calculators can take some of the guesswork out of the golden hour.
Take lots of photos.
The light is changing every minute — faster than you’ll realize at the moment. Shoot more frames more often to ensure you capture every change; this will give you more options to work with afterward.
Keep in mind that the golden hour light isn’t right or best for every type of photo session. Keep in mind that the golden hour light isn’t right or best for every type of photo session.
Thank you Encompass Health in Pearland Texas for Their Information
