Golden Hour Glory: Why 90-Minutes to Sunset is Prime Time for Senior Session Photos

If you’re looking to make your senior photo session truly epic, I’ve got a golden nugget of advice for you: schedule it 90 minutes before sunset. Trust me; it’s the perfect time to make your senior portraits shine!

Why, you ask? Well, here are a few reasons that’ll make you fall in love with the magic hour.

1. Dreamy Lighting: As a photographer who’s all about capturing the beauty of the moment, I can tell you that the light during this time is pure magic. The sun sits low on the horizon, casting a warm, soft, and golden glow. Your photos will have a dreamy, ethereal quality that’s hard to beat.

2. No More Harsh Shadows: If you’re worried about unflattering shadows under your eyes or nose, this is the time to banish them. The gentle, angled light creates minimal harsh shadows, giving your face a natural, glowing look.

3. Vibrant Colors: The colors in the sky during the sunset hour are a sight to behold. You’ll get those gorgeous oranges, pinks, and purples as your backdrop, making your photos pop with vibrant, natural beauty.

4. Relaxed Vibes: By scheduling your session during the golden hour, you get to avoid the midday heat and sweat. Plus, you’ll be more relaxed, as the evening is a time when everyone feels at ease.

5. Perfect Backgrounds: Whether you’re posing in a garden, by the river, or in your favorite spot, the soft, warm light makes every background look incredible. Your photos will ooze charm and personality.

6. More Time to Enjoy: The session won’t feel rushed, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the moment. No one’s tapping their watch, which means you can be yourself, have fun, and let your personality shine through.

So, there you have it, seniors! The golden hour, 90 minutes before sunset, is the prime time to make your senior photos unforgettable. With that enchanting light and relaxed atmosphere, you’re sure to have a blast and create some truly magical memories.

Want to learn more the senior portrait packages, check out the Senior Page, or read “5 tips for booking the perfect senior photographer for your session“on the blog.

I’d love to hear from you or do you have any questions, send me a DM at hello@smonsonphotography.com