“Can we plan our session for noon?”

I get asked this question ALOT.

And while yes, it is possible to do a photo session at any time of day, I always recommend finding a time as close to sunrise or sunset as possible. Besides the reason that I just LOVE those two times of day, here are a few more things to consider when planning your session time.

LIGHTING

So many of you, me included, LOVE the look of golden hour sunshine. You may not even know it, but you can only achieve that golden glowing look at two times of day. Sunrise ( yes, like 5am!) or Sunset. Those are the only times of day when the sun gets to the right angle in the sky to allow for some really pretty soft light that wraps around you and creates a really pretty glow or sun flare.

AVOID MID-DAY SUN

Ever notice that in the mid afternoon you have to squint no matter what direction you’re facing? That’s because the sun is at it’s peak, and is reflecting off of everything right into your eyes. This creates a not so flattering look in images, and shadows across your face. Though there are tricks that I use to minimize this, it’s so much easier to just shoot during a better time of day.

HEAT

Summer months can have brutal temperatures mid-day. No one wants to melt during a photo session. plus, kids love to RUN and wander around everywhere! It’s much easier for me and for you if we can let them roam freely without having to pull them back into shaded areas for better quality photos the whole time.

CROWDS

Some of the places that I like to photograph at are public parks and areas that are frequented by shoppers, runners, and families etc. To avoid having to wait for people to pass or having people in the backgrounds it’s a lot easier to just beat the crowds by going very early, or very late, depending on what the location is. Beaches, or public gardens are always better in the early morning hours before anyone else is even awake.

NAPTIMES

Smaller kids are usually early risers. They have SO MUCH ENERGY in the morning before that first nap time hits. We can take advantage of their morning happiness by getting out early!

WATERCOLOR SKIES

Guys, let’s be honest, sunrise and sunsets are just prettier! The sky is blue and pink and purple with soft sunshine just radiating everywhere. Why would you not want to have that in your photos?

If Sunrise or sunset are just not going to work for you, I completely understand!

We can schedule for a later morning or early afternoon time and hang in shaded areas to make the most of your session! See examples below of what to expect from a mid-day session.