10 Secrets to Picture-Perfect Wedding Photos You’ll Cherish Forever, Part 1 of 10
This series of blogs offers insider tips and tricks to help you, the brides, prepare for stunning wedding photos. It blends practical advice with inspiration, making it both informative and aspirational. You, the brides, often worry about how their photos will turn out, so this topic speaks directly to YOUR concerns while giving you actionable steps to help your photographer create magic. Stay tuned as we will be releasing a new one, to a total of 10, every Wednesday for the next 10 weeks.
Episode 1: The Golden Hour Advantage
Nicole and Corey, in Brooklyn, during golden hour. Click on the image for our complete portfolio
The "golden hour" refers to the magical time just after sunrise or shortly before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. During this brief period, the light is softer, warmer, and more diffused, creating a romantic and flattering glow that’s perfect for photography. Here’s why it’s a must-have for wedding photos:
1. Soft, Flattering Light
Nicole and Corey, in the streets of Brooklyn, New York. Click on the image for our complete portfolio
Unlike the harsh midday sun that can cast unflattering shadows and highlights, golden hour light is gentle. It reduces harsh contrasts and creates a smooth, even tone on skin, making everyone look their best. Brides especially love this time for how it enhances their natural beauty and their dress’s details. You will notice that in my portfolio, I pay special attention to those details, making sure my subjects are never facing the Sun. If we dont have a choice but to shoot under bright sunlight, I make sure the sun is always behind my couples, like in the example below.
Rachele & Mario, with the sun behind them, on their wedding day. Click on the image for our complete portfolio
2. Romantic Glow
Golden hour light adds a warm, golden hue to photos, creating a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. This soft glow enhances emotions and brings out the romance in couples’ portraits, making the photos feel timeless.
JC & Emma, on their wedding day. Click on the image for more of our portfolio
3. Beautiful Backgrounds
The low angle of the sun during golden hour casts long, soft shadows and a warm glow across the landscape. It makes outdoor settings—like fields, gardens, or beaches—look breathtaking. Even ordinary venues are transformed into stunning backdrops.
Stunning image in front of the Church, from JC & Emma wedding. Click on the image for our complete portfolio
4. No Squinting!
Shauly & Ruchy during their Engagement Session, in Montreal, Quebec. Click on the image for our complete portfolio
With the sun lower in the sky, there's no need for the bride, groom, or guests to squint, which often happens in bright midday light. This relaxed atmosphere helps everyone feel more comfortable, leading to natural, candid photos.
5. Dramatic Silhouettes
Golden hour is also the perfect time for creative shots like silhouettes. The soft backlighting creates dramatic outlines of the couple, capturing intimate moments in a unique way.
Shirel & Jeremy during their engagement session in Montreal. For our complete portfolio, click on the image
Pro Tip for Brides:
Work with us to plan your timeline around golden hour. Whether it’s for your couple’s portraits, bridal party shots, or even a quiet post-dinner moment, those golden hour photos will be some of your favourite ones. We specialize in shooting in any lighting conditions, and will help you plan your shoot accordingly. We will also give you guidance on what to wear if it’s an Engagement session, as well as good referrals for experienced and professional hairstylists and make up artists. Click here for our complete portfolio and here to fill out a form and reach out to us.
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Stay tuned for episode two of this 10 part series, called Communicating Your Wedding Photography Style: Why It Matters, coming out January 29th
