The Best Time for Your Photoshoot: Advice From a Birmingham Lifestyle Photographer
Did you know that the time of day can have a significant impact on your photoshoot?
Depending on what time your session is scheduled for, the overall look, feel and mood of the photos can absolutely be influenced. With this in mind, among other factors like location and season, there truly is no “best” time of day. Simply, a preference for how the lighting during certain times can impact the final results.
This is where the expertise of a seasoned lifestyle photographer can truly help, especially when it comes to planning your session and selecting the best timing.
Morning Photoshoots: Fresh, Bright and Relaxed
What Morning Light Looks Like
Morning light tends to be soft and fresh, particularly shortly after sunrise. Most morning sessions can help to create a look that is bright, airy and natural. Not to mention that the soft lighting is generally quite flattering for the subjects.
When Morning Is a Great Choice
Are you considering a morning photoshoot? This time of day is often best for families with young children who are happiest first thing in the morning, along with clients who prefer a soft and slow aesthetic.
It’s also important to note that many outdoor locations tend to be busier later in the day, making morning a great time if you’re looking for a more private session. If your photoshoot is during one of the warmer months, a morning session can help to combat and avoid the excessive heat.
Things to Consider
When scheduling a morning photoshoot with a Birmingham lifestyle photographer, there are a few things to consider, such as:
Earlier wake-up times
Varied sunrise timing based on the season
Preparing for hair, makeup and wardrobe
Afternoon Photoshoots: Convenient and Versatile
What Afternoon Light Looks Like
Afternoon like can range from bright and crisp, to softer as the day progresses. With help from a skilled photographer, it’s a straightforward process to not only work with the available light and location, but make it look complementary in the final results.
When Afternoon Is a Good Choice
Afternoon lighting is often a great choice for families and couples who prefer a later start, but may not be able to attend a golden hour session due to bedtime routines or other commitments.
If you opt for an indoor session, afternoon is a great choice as the natural window light can be quite ideal!
Things to Consider
When scheduling an afternoon photoshoot with a trusted Birmingham lifestyle photographer, you may want to consider that:
Afternoon lighting and midday sun can sometimes create a stronger, harsher shadow
Outdoor locations may be brighter and busier, compared to morning or golden hour
Your photographer may opt for a shaded area or specific location to create more flattering light if the sun is quite strong
Golden Hour: Warm, Dreamy and Romantic
What Is Golden Hour?
Golden hour is often described as the period shortly before sunset, when the sun is low in the sky. Photographers often love this time for outdoor sessions as the light creates a warm, glowing ambiance that is quite complementary for the subjects.
Especially when the sun is setting behind trees, it has the ability to trickle through and create a beautiful bokeh.
Why Choose Golden Hour?
During golden hour, you can benefit from warm, glowing light that creates soft shadows and flattering illumination. This beautiful backlighting helps to create an atmosphere that is both romantic and cinematic, which is well suited for couples, maternity, engagement, and family photography.
Things to Consider
When booking a golden hour lifestyle photography session, we recommend to keep in mind that:
Golden hour sessions can be later in the evening, especially in the summer months.
The timing for golden hour sessions changes throughout the year
Popular golden hour photo sessions can book up quickly.
Which Photoshoot Time Is Right for You?
Are you wondering which photoshoot time is best for you? Here is a quick comparison of the top points we have covered in this article, to help provide you with an at-a-glance idea of each option!
Morning
Bright, fresh and peaceful.
Afternoon
Convenient, flexible and versatile.
Golden Hour
Warm, dreamy and romantic.
As you review the options and decide which path is best suited for your lifestyle photoshoot, consider the feeling that you’d like the images to capture - rather than simply choosing a popular or recommended time!
How a Birmingham Lifestyle Photographer Can Help
When planning your session with a Birmingham lifestyle photographer, choosing the right time involves more than just checking which time sunset occurs. Your photographer will keep in mind a number of impactful factors that will contribute to the overall look and feel of your session, from location and season, to weather, wardrobe, and session type.
If you’re located in Birmingham, Alabama or a surrounding area, working with a local photographer is of even more importance. They will have a great understanding of the best locations for the session, along with any other contributing factors.
Before booking with a local photographer, be sure to discuss your vision, review their portfolio and even review testimonials to help ensure that they are the right fit for you.
There Is No One-Size-Fits-All Photoshoot Time
At Bryant Studio, we believe that there really is no one-size-fits-all approach to a photoshoot. Including the time of day! Whether in the morning, afternoon or at golden hour, beautiful photographs are achievable. The best choice truly depends on your personality, desired style and schedule!
For more information or help getting started, contact Bryant Studio today - your trusted Birmingham Lifestyle Photographer. We’ll work closely with you to identify the desired outcome of the session, and plan the shoot accordingly.
Your dream lifestyle photos are just around the corner.
