One of the most common questions I get asked is: “What time of day is best for photos?” The truth is, the answer depends on a few factors—like the season, location, and the kind of look you’re going for.
While any time of day can work with the right approach, certain times are better for that soft, glowing, and natural look that so many of my clients love. So, let’s break it down by season to help you choose the best time for your photoshoot!
Golden Hour: The All-Season Favorite
Before we talk about the best time of day for photos in each season, I have to mention golden hour—the holy grail of photography lighting! Golden hour happens about an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset, giving you that soft, flattering, and dreamy light everyone loves. This is always the best time for photos, no matter the season.
But if golden hour isn’t possible, don’t worry! There are other great options depending on the season and the type of session you’re planning.
Spring: Soft & Blooming
🌸 Best Time: Late Afternoon to Early Evening (5:00 – 7:00 PM)
Springtime means blooming flowers, fresh greenery, and mild temperatures. If you love cherry blossoms, tulips, or wildflowers in your photos, spring is your season!
Golden hour works beautifully, but in the early spring months (March and April), sunset is still relatively early, so planning a session around 5:00 – 7:00 PM works best. Mornings can also be beautiful, especially for soft dewy light, but be mindful of unpredictable spring weather.
✅ Best Locations: Flower fields, gardens, parks, or mountain foothills with fresh greenery.
Summer: Bright & Warm
☀️ Best Time: Early Morning (6:00 – 8:00 AM) or Golden Hour (7:00 – 9:00 PM)
Summer means longer days, which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Since the sun is higher and harsher during midday, it’s best to avoid sessions between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM unless you have access to shade.
For cooler temperatures and soft lighting, opt for early morning sessions (6:00 – 8:00 AM) or wait until golden hour (7:00 – 9:00 PM) when the sun is lower, giving a warm glow without harsh shadows.
✅ Best Locations: The beach (especially in Southern California), open fields, mountain meadows, and shaded forests for a soft, filtered light.
Best Time of Day for Photos in the Fall for Crisp & Cozy Images
🍂 Best Time: Late Afternoon to Evening (4:00 – 6:30 PM)
Fall is hands down one of the most popular seasons for photography, and for good reason! The cooler air, golden leaves, and warm earthy tones create a stunning backdrop.
Since the sun sets earlier in the fall, late afternoon (4:00 – 6:30 PM) is the sweet spot. You still get golden light but without the summer’s late sunset time. Overcast days also happen more often in the fall, which can actually be amazing for even, soft lighting!
✅ Best Locations: Mountain trails, tree-lined parks, pumpkin patches, or urban areas with fall foliage.
Winter: Cool & Dreamy
❄️ Best Time: Midday to Afternoon (12:00 – 3:00 PM)
Winter lighting is a little different. Because the sun stays lower in the sky and the days are shorter, you can actually shoot during midday without worrying about harsh shadows. This is great for snowy sessions, where the bright snow reflects light beautifully.
For snowy mountain sessions, midday (12:00 – 3:00 PM) works best to capture crisp, bright images without losing light too soon. Overcast winter days also create a dreamy, moody vibe that looks magical, especially for engagements or family sessions in cozy outfits.
✅ Best Locations: Snow-covered mountains, evergreen forests, or cozy indoor locations with big windows for natural light.
Bonus
If you’re considering an indoor session—whether it’s a cozy home shoot or a studio session—natural light from windows is your best friend. Mid-morning to midday (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM) is usually the best for getting bright, even light indoors.
The Best Time of Day for Photos Recap:
While golden hour is the go-to for dreamy outdoor portraits, the best time of day for photos also depends on the season and your personal style.
I know you’re busy, so let me give you a quick recap that you can screenshot for the best time :
🌸 Spring: Late afternoon to evening (5:00 – 7:00 PM)
☀️ Summer: Early morning (6:00 – 8:00 AM) or golden hour (7:00 – 9:00 PM)
🍂 Fall: Late afternoon (4:00 – 6:30 PM)
❄️ Winter: Midday to afternoon (12:00 – 3:00 PM)
Each season has something unique to offer, and as your photographer, I’m here to help find the perfect time to capture your special moments in the most beautiful light.
Ready to book your session? Let’s plan something amazing! Whether it’s a mountaintop engagement, a golden-hour wedding, or a cozy family shoot, I’d love to help create timeless memories for you. Contact me today to schedule your session! ✨
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