The Best Time of Day for Your Senior Pictures | Serena, Class of 2024

When is the best time of day to take your senior pictures?

The best time of day to take your senior pictures might not be when you think. Most people think the more sun the better! Well, as a seasoned senior photographer, I’m here to tell you when the best time to get your photos taken is!

Golden Hour Glow

Maybe I gave it away, but golden hour is the best time to get your senior photos taken!

So when is golden hour? In Rochester, I typically schedule my sessions around an hour to an hour and a half before sunset. This gives us time to get some epic sun flares and the golden glow that everyone wants for their senior pictures.

Capture the magic of your senior year with pictures bathed in the warm, golden hues of the evening sun! Golden hour isn’t just a time; it’s a vibe that adds a natural, dreamy glow to your senior portraits. The soft, flattering light enhances your features and creates a stunning backdrop for memories that will last a lifetime. Trust me, you’ll shine as bright as the golden hour itself in these pictures!

Serena’s senior session was the perfect example of why golden hour is the best! We went to the George Eastman Museum to take her senior pictures. I love George Eastman for many reasons – the architecture, the beautiful gardens, and of course the beautiful lighting at sunset. Serena even braved full sun for some amazing and bold photos!

The Best Time of Day for Your Senior Pictures – 5 Reasons to Shoot at Sunset:

1. Dreamy Atmosphere: Golden hour, occurring shortly after sunrise or before sunset, bathes everything in a warm, soft glow. This ethereal lighting creates a dreamy atmosphere, adding a magical touch to your photos.
2. Flattering Light: The angle of the sun during golden hour results in soft, diffused light that is incredibly flattering. It minimizes harsh shadows and highlights, showcasing your features in the best possible way.
3. Warm Tones: The warm, golden tones during this time lend a rich and inviting quality to your photos. Your portraits will exude warmth and radiance, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
4. Beautiful Backdrops: The low angle of the sun during golden hour creates long shadows and a stunning interplay of light and shadow. This adds depth and dimension to your surroundings, resulting in visually captivating backgrounds for your photos.
5. Magical Memories: Beyond the technical advantages, shooting at golden hour provides a unique and enchanting experience. The serene ambiance and natural beauty make the process enjoyable, ensuring that the memories captured during this time are truly magical.

See you at sunset?

So, are you convinced you need a golden hour senior session? If you need more convincing, check out Hailey’s senior session!