Have you ever looked at a photo and wondered, “Why does that look so dreamy and cinematic?” while another photo of the same location looks a bit flat?
The answer isn’t usually the camera, or even the editing. It’s the light.
As a photographer, light is my paintbrush. And in the UK, where the weather likes to keep us on our toes, knowing how to use light is the difference between a good photo and a multi-award-winning one.
What is Golden Hour?
You might have heard photographers obsessing over “Golden Hour.” This is the period shortly after sunrise or, more commonly for my shoots, the hour before sunset. During this time, the sun is low in the sky. The light travels through more of the atmosphere, which softens it and turns it a beautiful, warm gold.
How We Use It
For Weddings: I always check the sunset time before a wedding. Even if your schedule is packed, I will often suggest we sneak out for just 10 minutes during the reception when the light is dropping. These often end up being the couple’s favourite shots of the entire day—just the two of you, a quiet moment, and incredible light.
For Outdoor Family Shoots: If you are booking a session in Bradgate Park or Beacon Hill, I might suggest a late afternoon slot. I know it can be tricky with kids’ bedtimes, but if we can make it work, the results are worth keeping them up for!
But What If It’s Cloudy? Don’t worry! As a Leicester-based photographer, I’m very used to grey skies. Clouds act as a giant “softbox,” diffusing the sunlight and making it very even. This is actually perfect for portraits as it means no squinting and no harsh shadows under your eyes.
Whether the sun is blazing or the clouds are rolling in, I’ve got the experience to make you look your best. But if we can catch that golden sunset… magic happens.
Ready to book a session bathed in beautiful light? Get in touch, and let’s check the sunset times together.
