Choosing the right time for ceremony & sunset photos

 SUMMER TIME

• Longer Days: With longer daylight hours, you have more time to capture stunning outdoor shots and take advantage of the golden hour—the hour just before sunset when the light is soft and warm.
• Outdoor Venues: Summer allows for weddings in picturesque outdoor locations, such as gardens, beaches, vineyards, or scenic landscapes. These settings provide a natural and stunning backdrop for your photos.
• Vibrant Colours: Summer brings vibrant colours, lush greenery, and blooming flowers, creating a visually appealing environment for your wedding photos.
• Natural Light: The abundance of natural light during summer makes it ideal for capturing bright, airy, and naturally lit images. However, it’s important to be mindful of harsh midday sunlight and plan accordingly for shaded areas or indoor locations.
• Playful and Casual Atmosphere: Summer weddings often have a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Incorporate fun and playful elements, such as colourful props or activities, to add a sense of summer cheer to your photos.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself and your wedding party hydrated throughout the day, especially if you’re shooting outdoors in warm weather. This will ensure everyone feels comfortable and refreshed, resulting in natural and happy-looking photos.
• Sunset Shots: Take advantage of the magical sunset during summer evenings. Plan a few minutes for the couple to step away from the reception to capture breathtaking sunset shots that will add a touch of romance to your wedding album.

Summer sunset times 
December: Sunset times range from around 7:45 PM to 8:15 PM.
January: Sunset times range from around 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
February: Sunset times range from around 7:45 PM to 8:15 PM

OPTIMAL CEREMONY TIME
In the summer months the later your ceremony is the better, but look at 4 or 4.30pm. Chat to me about a timeline for your day and how to include your ceremony, family photos and bridal party photos before you enter reception.

AUTUMN TIME

• Vibrant Foliage: Autumn brings a beautiful array of warm and rich colors, with foliage ranging from golden yellows to fiery oranges and deep reds. Take advantage of this natural backdrop for breathtaking outdoor photos.

• Soft Lighting: The lower angle of the sun during autumn casts a soft, warm light that flatters both landscapes and portraits. This gentle lighting can create a romantic and ethereal atmosphere in your photos.

• Cozy Atmosphere: Autumn evokes a cozy and intimate feeling. Incorporate elements like blankets, scarves, or rustic accessories to enhance the cozy ambiance and add depth to your images.

• Seasonal Details: Incorporate autumn-themed details into your wedding decor, or autumn flowers. These elements will add a touch of seasonal charm to your photographs.

• Golden Hour Magic: During autumn, the golden hour—the hour just before sunset—has a warm and golden hue. This soft, diffused light is perfect for capturing romantic portraits or dreamy outdoor scenes.

• Dress Appropriately: As temperatures may vary during autumn, ensure that you and your wedding party dress appropriately to stay comfortable. Consider layering options or providing wraps for the wedding party to stay warm during outdoor sessions.

• Location Selection: Choose locations that showcase the autumn colors, such as parks, gardens, vineyards, or wooded areas. These settings will enhance the seasonal feel of your photographs.

Autumn sunset times 
March: Sunset times range from around 7:20 PM to 7:35 PM.
April: Sunset times range from around 5:45 PM to 6:00 PM.
May: Sunset times range from around 5:10 PM to 5:25 PM.

OPTIMAL CEREMONY TIME
In the autumn months you tend to lose light quicker than summer. Look at having your ceremony around 2.30pm or 3pm.  Chat to me about a timeline for your day and how to include your ceremony, family photos and bridal party photos before you enter reception.

WINTER TIME

• Winter Wonderland: Embrace the magical ambiance of winter. If you’re lucky, you might have a snowy backdrop that adds a fairytale-like feel to your photos. Even without snow, the crisp winter air and bare trees can create a romantic and intimate atmosphere.
• Indoor Elegance: Winter provides an opportunity to take advantage of indoor venues, such as cozy cabins, historic buildings, or grand ballrooms. These locations offer elegant backdrops and beautiful architectural details for your photographs.
• Dramatic Lighting: The low angle of the winter sun creates a soft, diffused light that can add a touch of drama and depth to your images. Capture the unique play of light and shadows during this season.
• Cozy Accessories: Incorporate cozy accessories into your wedding attire, such as faux fur wraps, stylish coats, or elegant gloves. These accessories not only keep you warm but also add a chic and sophisticated touch to your winter wedding photos.
• Candlelit Moments: Winter evenings provide opportunities for warm, candlelit scenes. Use candles and fairy lights to create a cozy and romantic atmosphere, perfect for capturing intimate moments between you and your partner.
• Weather Play: If weather conditions permit, don’t be afraid to venture outdoors for some winter wonderland shots. Freshly fallen snow or misty fog can add a touch of magic to your photographs. Just make sure to dress appropriately and consider providing warm drinks or blankets for your wedding party.
• Take Advantage of Early Sunsets: Winter brings shorter daylight hours, but you can use this to your advantage. Plan your schedule to take advantage of the early sunsets and capture stunning twilight and nighttime shots with beautiful city lights or starry skies.

Winter sunset times 
June: Sunset times range from around 4:55 PM to 5:10 PM.
July: Sunset times range from around 4:55 PM to 5:10 PM.
August: Sunset times range from around 5:10 PM to 5:25 PM.

OPTIMAL CEREMONY TIME
In the winter months you lose light incredibly quick, so look at no later than 2pm or 2.30pm for your ceremony time. Chat to me about a timeline for your day and how to include your ceremony, family photos and bridal party photos before you enter reception.

SPRING TIME

• Blooming Beauty: Spring brings a burst of vibrant colors with flowers in full bloom. Take advantage of nature’s beauty by incorporating floral backdrops or gardens into your photography sessions.

• Soft and Gentle Light: The springtime sun offers soft, diffused lighting that is flattering for portraits and outdoor shots. Capture the warmth and glow of the season by scheduling photography sessions during the golden hour—the hour just after sunrise or before sunset.

• Outdoor Delights: Spring weather is generally mild, making it a perfect time for outdoor weddings. Utilize parks, gardens, or natural landscapes as enchanting settings for your photographs.

• Playful Elements: Embrace the lively and playful spirit of spring by incorporating props such as umbrellas, colourful balloons, or pastel accessories. These elements can add a whimsical touch to your images.

• Embrace the Rain: Spring showers can bring a touch of romance to your wedding day. Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits—embrace it! Capture the beauty of raindrops or consider using clear umbrellas for dreamy and unique shots.

• Cherry Blossom Magic: If you’re lucky enough to have cherry blossoms in your area, take advantage of these ephemeral beauties. The delicate and ethereal blossoms make for stunning wedding photography backdrops.

• Floral Details: Incorporate seasonal flowers into your wedding decor, bouquets, or centerpieces. These floral details will not only enhance the springtime atmosphere but also add a touch of elegance and freshness to your photographs.

• Fresh and Natural: Spring is a time of renewal and new beginnings. Embrace a natural and fresh look with light and airy outfits, minimal makeup, and soft hairstyles. These choices will complement the season and create timeless images.

Spring sunset times 
September: Sunset times range from around 5:45 PM to 6:00 PM.
October: Sunset times range from around 6:30 PM to 6:45 PM.
November: Sunset times range from around 7:30 PM to 7:45 PM.

OPTIMAL CEREMONY TIME
In the spring months the light starts to stay a little longer, look at 2.30pm or 3pm for your ceremony time. Chat to me about a timeline for your day and how to include your ceremony, family photos and bridal party photos before you enter reception.

Other Articles