Listen to the Light

Certain times of day photograph with cinematic qualities – others with the unique golden magic of twilight others. Most wedding days move through a variety of lighting environments, many of which are outside our control — and your photographer will adapt accordingly.

When building a photogenic timeline, we always like to begin with sunset, then work backward, anchoring the rest of the day around this fixed point.

• Sunny days: Early morning, late afternoon, and evening provide the most flattering light from all directions. These are ideal windows for portraits and outdoor ceremonies in direct sun.
  
• Overcast days: Soft, even light is often present throughout the day, typically until about one hour before sunset.

Golden hour may look different depending on conditions — sometimes dramatic, sometimes subtle — but always meaningful in its own way.

Allow for Transition Time

If your day includes multiple locations, padding travel time is essential. Traffic, parking, and small delays can add up quickly.

Whenever possible, limit excessive driving and prioritize time spent with each other and your loved ones. A smoother flow keeps the day feeling calm and intentional.

Key Lighting & Timeline Considerations

Some ceremony locations present lighting challenges.
In summer especially, direct sun between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm, or dappled light beneath trees, can create harsh or uneven shadows. From a photography perspective, later afternoon ceremony times — or orienting the ceremony so your backs face the sun — offer the most balanced results.

Schedule most portraits during daylight.

Sunrise and sunset provide the most flattering light, while dusk introduces cooler (blue) tones that are difficult to correct naturally in editing. Once daylight fades, photography relies on flash and ambient light. When needed, the studio uses professional strobes and umbrellas, creating a more classic, traditionally lit look for evening moments.

Considering additional coverage?

If you think you may need more time, it’s best to discuss this early with your photographer and planning team. Extending coverage on the wedding day itself may not be possible — or may come at a premium — especially if travel commitments are already in place after the scheduled wrap time.

Build in Breathing Room

It’s more than okay to schedule breaks — it’s encouraged.

Adding 10 – 15 minutes of buffer time (especially while getting ready or coordinating a larger wedding party) can transform the experience from rushed to relaxed. These moments offer space to breathe, reset, and fully enjoy what comes next.

What to Know About Lighting & Coverage

While we bring professional equipment and years of experience working in all conditions, some locations and times of day are simply more flattering than others. Thoughtful planning makes a meaningful difference.

On bright summer days, scheduling your ceremony and portraits later in the afternoon helps soften the light. When possible, placing your ceremony in open shade — or positioning the sun behind your officiant during peak daylight — creates more even, comfortable lighting. (Your suit-wearing guests will thank you.)

Most wedding days move through a variety of uncontrolled lighting environments, and your photographer will adapt with care. On overcast days, for example, golden hour may appear more subtle, with white skies instead of blue. While light may change, what never does is the importance of the moment itself. Connection, emotion, and presence are what create the most meaningful images of the day.