If you’ve ever looked at photos and thought, “How does this look so soft and dreamy?” there’s a really good chance they were taken during golden hour. It’s that magical pocket of time where everything feels warmer, calmer, and just a little more romantic. And yes, it really does make a difference in your photos.

Let me tell you why I’m such a golden hour fan.

So… what exactly is golden hour?

Golden hour isn’t a specific time on the clock. It’s the first hour after the sun rises and the last hour before it sets. During this time, the sun sits lower in the sky, which means the light is softer, warmer, and way more flattering than harsh midday sun.

The colors feel rich but not overwhelming. Skin tones look natural and glowy. Shadows are gentle instead of harsh. Everything just feels easier on the eyes. It’s nature’s built-in filter, and it’s a good one.

The light does half the work for us

One of the biggest reasons golden hour is so special is the quality of light. Midday sun can be intense. It creates strong shadows under eyes, bright highlights, and makes everyone squint. Golden hour light wraps around you instead of shining straight down, which means fewer harsh shadows and a much softer look overall.

This is the kind of light that makes photos feel romantic and timeless. The kind you’ll still love years from now.

You look more relaxed (because you feel more relaxed)

Here’s something people don’t always think about. Golden hour sessions tend to feel calmer. The day is winding down, the air cools off a bit, and there’s less rush. That relaxed feeling shows up in your photos.

When you’re not fighting the sun, heat, or squinting, you settle into the moment faster. You move more naturally. You laugh easier. And that’s when the photos start to feel really you.

It creates emotion, not just pretty pictures

Golden hour doesn’t just look good, it feels good. There’s something nostalgic about it. That warm light has a way of pulling emotion into a photo without trying too hard.

These are the images that tend to make people pause when they look back. The ones that feel like a memory, not just a snapshot.

It’s incredibly flattering for everyone

I’ll say it plainly. Golden hour is kind to everyone. It smooths skin, softens features, and gives you that natural glow without heavy editing.

And yes, it works beautifully for both outdoor and indoor sessions. Window light during golden hour is just as dreamy, and it even adds depth and softness to black and white images.

Your location shines without stealing the spotlight

No matter where we shoot, golden hour elevates it. A simple field feels romantic. An urban spot feels cinematic. A mountain view feels unreal. The light enhances the environment without overpowering you.

You’re still the focus. The light just helps tell the story better.

Is golden hour required? No. Is it worth it? Almost always.

I never want you to feel boxed into a schedule that doesn’t work for you. But if you have flexibility, I will almost always recommend golden hour. It gives us the best possible combination of light, mood, and comfort.

At the end of the day, my goal is simple. I want your photos to feel like you. Warm. Real. Full of connection. Golden hour just happens to be one of the easiest ways to get us there.

If you’re unsure how to plan for it, that’s what I’m here for. We’ll build it into your timeline when we are planning your wedding, engagement, or bridal sessions in a way that feels natural and stress free. You just show up and love on your person. I’ll take care of the rest.

Hugs!!!