The golden hour is the perfect time to take dreamy, romantic portraits for newlyweds. As a California wedding photographer, I love taking advantage of that gorgeous, glowing light whenever I can. When done right, the last hour of sunlight before sunset can create the softest, most enchanting imagery on your wedding day! Enjoy these Golden Hour portrait tips for your wedding!

Here are a few golden hour portrait tips to make the most of the hour:

1. Decide what style you prefer
   Wedding photographers have different styles for working with natural light. Some go for moody and intense, with the sun beaming directly onto couples. Others prefer a softer, backlit glow. Personally, I aim for a gentle, ethereal look during golden hour. Check out examples to ensure you love a photographer’s golden hour style.
2. Consider the weather
   we can’t control the weather much! Golden hour works best after a sunny, cloudless day, or when evening clouds clear to reveal the horizon. Don’t get your heart set on it, though – sometimes the rainiest days end up with magical golden hour light. Your photos will be special no matter what.
3. Discuss it with your photographer
   When talking with couples before the wedding, we discuss timing for different photo opportunities throughout the day. Let your photographer know if you’re dreaming of sunset portraits, so they can plan for it if conditions allow.
4. It’s all about timing
   Golden hour happens at different times each season due to daylight changes. In late spring and summer, we often take golden hour portraits after the wedding dinner. For fall or winter weddings with earlier sunsets, we may go out before the dinner or slip away briefly during it.
5. Savor the moment
   Not only is golden hour enchanting, but it gives you a rare chance as newlyweds to slip away from guests for some peaceful moments together. Use this time to reflect on the day, enjoy being married, and simply be present with each other. Many couples cherish these quiet interludes on their wedding day.

View more of my work and work with me on your dream wedding day!: https://shannonbmontgomery.com/portfolio

View more golden hour portraits: https://pin.it/3I9afAPJK