Golden hour is a favorite time for photographers due to its soft, warm lighting, but with Daylight Saving Time ending, it’s essential to plan your wedding photos carefully to make the most of this fleeting period. Here’s a guide to capturing stunning Golden Hour Photos in Orlando post-DST.
Golden Hour Photos in Orlando
Know When Golden Hour Is (and Isn’t)
– Timing: After Daylight Saving Time ends, golden hour occurs earlier in the afternoon, typically starting about an hour before sunset. In late fall or winter, this may mean golden hour can begin as early as 4 p.m. or earlier, depending on your location.
– Check Sunset Times: Use a reliable weather app or a golden hour app to pinpoint the exact timing for a golden hour on your wedding date. Knowing this will help you coordinate the timing for portraits and couple shots.
Plan the Wedding Timeline Around Golden Hour
– Ceremony: Consider your ceremony timing carefully if you want post-ceremony golden hour photos. A ceremony that ends shortly before golden hour gives you a perfect window for newlywed portraits.
– First Look Option: If your timeline doesn’t accommodate post-ceremony golden hour, consider doing a “first look” before the ceremony to capture these images earlier in the day.
Scout the Perfect Location
– Sunset-Friendly Spots: Locations with a clear view of the horizon or slightly elevated spots are ideal for golden hour. Open fields, gardens, and waterfront areas can offer unobstructed light.
– Foreground and Background Choices: Golden hour can enhance natural features like trees, mountains, or water. Make sure these features are accessible around sunset so you don’t miss the window.
Coordinate with the Photographer in Advance
– Shot List: Work with your photographer to decide which shots are most important to capture during golden hour. This way, they can prioritize and maximize the short time available.
– Lighting Conditions: Golden hour lighting changes quickly. A skilled photographer will adjust for this and keep the shots dynamic and varied to capture the warm tones before they fade into twilight.
Consider the Angle and Composition
– Backlighting: One of the most popular golden hour techniques is backlighting, which casts a soft glow around subjects, adding a romantic, dreamlike feel.
– Side Lighting: Side lighting can give your portraits more dimension, emphasizing textures and adding drama to both the subject and background.
– Silhouettes: The low angle of the sun is perfect for silhouette shots, creating striking, high-contrast images. These are often ideal for a few dramatic or intimate couple shots.
Make Use of Golden Hour Props
– Veils and Accessories: Light fabrics, like veils or scarves, can catch the golden light beautifully. Your photographer might suggest incorporating these elements for a touch of softness.
– Bouquets and Floral: Hold your bouquet up to catch the golden light, or use it to frame a shot creatively. Golden hour enhances natural tones and can make flowers look more vibrant.
Stay Flexible and Enjoy the Moment
Golden hour is fleeting and unpredictable. The most beautiful shots often come from relaxed, spontaneous interactions between the couple, so stay in the moment and enjoy the process.
With some planning and coordination with your photographer, you can create unforgettable golden hour wedding photos that capture this magical time of day at its best!
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