Lighting Tips for Wedding Planning

When planning your wedding, there's so much to think about. From choosing the perfect dress to deciding on the cake flavor, the details are endless. But one thing you might not have considered yet? The time of day for your wedding photos! Believe it or not, the time you take your photos can make a huge difference in how they turn out, and it all comes down to lighting.

1. Why Does Lighting Matter?

Simply put, lighting can either make or break a photo. The way light interacts with your skin, your dress, and your surroundings can drastically change the mood and feel of the image. If the light is too harsh or too dim, it can create shadows and unflattering contrasts. On the other hand, soft, natural light can make everything look warm and dreamy.

As a bride, you want your wedding photos to capture you at your best. So, knowing when and how to take advantage of different lighting times can make a big difference in the final result.

2. Golden Hour: The Secret to Stunning Photos

If there’s one time of day to aim for, it’s golden hour—that magical time just before sunset. This is when the light is soft, warm, and has a beautiful glow. It’s perfect for creating dreamy, romantic wedding photos, especially if you’re taking outdoor shots or in a venue with large windows. Golden hour usually happens about 30 minutes to an hour before the sun sets, so timing is key. The light during this period is flattering and softens any harsh lines or shadows, making it ideal for portraits. If you’re having an evening ceremony or your wedding falls in the middle of the day, work with your photographer to carve out time for golden hour shots. Even if your ceremony is earlier, you can always sneak out with your photographer for a quick session at sunset.

3. Midday: Bright, But Be Careful

Midday can be a tricky time for wedding photos because the sun is usually at its highest point in the sky. This can create harsh shadows and squinty eyes. If your wedding is in the afternoon or around lunchtime, it’s important to be mindful of the lighting and work with your photographer to find shaded spots or use diffusers to soften the light.

While it’s not ideal for portraits, midday light can work for more creative or editorial shots, like capturing your venue details, reception decor, or fun candid moments with guests. If you do have to take photos during midday, look for shaded areas, such as under trees or awnings, to avoid direct sunlight and prevent squinting.

4. Cloudy or Overcast Days: A Blessing for Photos

If your wedding day happens to be cloudy or overcast, don’t stress! In fact, overcast skies provide some of the best natural lighting for photos. The clouds act as a giant diffuser, creating even, soft light that’s perfect for portraits and group shots. There are no harsh shadows, and you won’t have to worry about the sun making you squint or casting uneven light across your face. So, if it’s a cloudy day, embrace it! It could actually be a blessing in disguise.

5. So, When Should You Schedule Your Photos?

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best times for different kinds of photos:

Getting Ready Shots: These are usually taken in the morning or early afternoon, so plan for soft indoor lighting with plenty of natural light if possible.

Bridal Party & Family Photos: Early afternoon or a little before golden hour is perfect for these shots.

Couple’s Portraits: Golden hour is the best time for romantic, glowing portraits. If you can, sneak out during sunset.

Reception Photos: Dusk or nighttime shots can capture the fun and intimacy of the evening. A great time for candid moments or dancing shots!

The time of day for your wedding photos can truly elevate your wedding album. Understanding how lighting works at different times of day allows you to make the most of your photos, so you can look back and relive the magic for years to come.