The Magic of a Golden Hour Shoot at Your Wedding
As a wedding photographer in Michigan, one of the moments I always recommend to couples is setting aside time for a golden hour photo session on their wedding day. Known for its soft, warm light and romantic glow, golden hour provides an unmatched opportunity to capture stunning, dreamy wedding photos that you’ll cherish forever.
What Is Golden Hour?
Golden hour refers to the short window of time just after sunrise or before sunset when the sunlight is softer and more diffuse. Unlike midday light, which can create harsh shadows, golden hour offers a warm, flattering glow that enhances your natural beauty and highlights Michigan's breathtaking landscapes.
In Michigan, the exact timing of golden hour changes with the seasons. We can determine the exact time for your wedding day. As a rule of thumb:
Summer: Golden hour is later in the evening, around 8-9 PM.
Fall and Spring: It falls earlier, typically between 6-8 PM.
Winter: Expect golden hour around 4-5 PM, as days are shorter.
Why Plan a Golden Hour Wedding Shoot?
1. Flattering Light
Golden hour light is incredibly kind to skin tones, reducing harsh shadows and creating a natural glow. It’s the perfect time to capture romantic portraits of you and your partner.
2. Showcasing Michigan’s Scenic Beauty
Whether you’re in a lush vineyard, on the shores of Lake Michigan, or surrounded by autumn foliage in Oakland County, golden hour brings out the natural colors and textures of the landscape.
3. A Quiet, Intimate Moment
Wedding days can feel like a whirlwind, but golden hour is a chance to pause, breathe, and share a private, romantic moment with your partner.
4. Memorable, Unique Shots
Golden hour creates an ethereal look that stands out in your wedding album. The soft light is ideal for capturing silhouettes, lens flares, and artistic compositions.
How to Plan a Golden Hour Shoot on Your Wedding Day
1. Work Golden Hour Into Your Timeline
To make the most of this magical light, plan for a 20-30 minute session just before sunset. Collaborate with your wedding photographer and planner to schedule it without disrupting other key events, such as dinner or dancing.
2. Choose the Right Location
As a Michigan wedding photographer, I can recommend locations at your venue where golden hour shines best. I’ll help you find the perfect backdrop.
4. Trust Your Photographer
Golden hour requires quick adjustments to capture the light as it changes. Trust your photographer to guide you through poses and compositions to make the most of this fleeting time.
Capture Michigan’s Magic With a Golden Hour Shoot
Including a golden hour session on your wedding day isn’t just about the photos—it’s about creating memories in one of Michigan’s most beautiful moments. As your wedding photographer, I’ll ensure you look and feel amazing while capturing the glow of this special time.
Ready to plan your golden hour wedding shoot? Let’s talk about how we can make your Michigan wedding photos truly unforgettable!
