Planning a wedding in Nashville? (or anywhere for that matter!) Then you’ve likely heard the term “golden hour” tossed around by photographers. But what exactly is golden hour, and why should you, as a bride-to-be, care about it? Here’s everything you need to know about this magical time of day and how it can elevate your wedding and engagement photos.

What is Golden Hour?

Golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset when the sun is low in the sky, creating a soft, warm glow. This natural lighting is incredibly flattering, casting a gentle, golden hue that enhances skin tones and adds a dreamy ambiance to photos. Unlike the harsh midday sun, golden hour light is diffused, reducing shadows and providing a beautiful, even illumination.

Why Couples Need to Know About Golden Hour

• Flattering Light: The soft light during golden hour minimizes imperfections and highlights your best features, ensuring you look radiant in every shot.
• Romantic Atmosphere: The warm tones and gentle shadows create a romantic and ethereal backdrop, perfect for capturing intimate moments.
• Timeless Photos: Photos taken during golden hour have a timeless quality, making your wedding album a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Utilizing Golden Hour on Your Wedding Day

To make the most of golden hour, consider these tips for your wedding day:

• Plan Your Timeline: Work with your photographer to schedule your couple portraits during golden hour. This may mean adjusting your ceremony time or planning a brief break during the reception for a quick photo session.
• Scout Locations: Choose venues or spots that look particularly stunning in golden hour light. Open fields, gardens, and waterfronts can be magical during this time.
• Be Flexible: Golden hour is brief, lasting about an hour. Be ready to move quickly to capture the perfect shots as the light changes.

Engagement Shoots and Bridal Sessions

Golden hour isn’t just for the wedding day. It’s also ideal for engagement shoots and bridal sessions. Here’s why:

• Consistent Aesthetic: Scheduling your engagement and bridal sessions during golden hour ensures a cohesive look across all your photos.
• Less Rush: Unlike the wedding day, engagement and bridal shoots allow for more relaxed, unhurried sessions during golden hour.
• Experiment with Styles: This is a great time to try out different poses and locations without the pressure of a tight wedding day timeline.

By understanding and utilizing golden hour, you can ensure your wedding photos are nothing short of spectacular. As a Nashville wedding photographer, we’re here to help you capture the magic of your special day with stunning, golden-hour images. Contact us today to learn more about scheduling your shoot during this perfect time of day.