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Morning vs. Golden Hour vs. Midday: Best Times to Shoot

Morning vs. Golden Hour vs. Midday: Best Times to Shoot

Let’s find the perfect time for your session: one that fits your life and brings out the best of your story.

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I have come across the question regarding the best time for photos many times, and the honest answer is – it depends on the vibe you’re going for… but the light? The light makes all the difference.

As a natural light photographer here in Franklin, TN, I work with whatever the day gives us, whether that’s soft morning haze, dreamy golden hour glow, or even bright midday sun (yes, it can work, I promise). But each of these times of day brings something totally different to the table.

So let’s talk through them.

Morning Light: Soft, Clean, and Calm

Early morning sessions are underrated.

The light is soft and gentle, like that first cup of coffee that hasn’t gone cold yet. It wraps around your family in the sweetest way. No harsh shadows. No sweaty toddlers. Just fresh faces and peaceful energy (well… as peaceful as mornings with kids can be).

If you’re doing an in-home session, this is when the light spills into windows beautifully. And if we’re outdoors, the air is still cool, and the locations aren’t crowded.

Best for:

– Young kids with early bedtimes.

– In-home lifestyle sessions.

– Families who want bright, clean images with a fresh feel.

Midday Light: Bold, Bright, and Tricky

Okay, let’s talk about the biggie here: midday light gets a bad reputation. Yes, it’s harsh. Yes, it can be unflattering if you don’t know how to use it. But here’s the thing: when you do know how to work with it (hi, this is what Natural Light Academy teaches!), it can create bold, high-contrast, energetic photos that pop.

We’ll look for open shade, use natural reflectors (like sidewalks or walls), and I’ll guide you into angles that work with the sun instead of against it.

So, if midday is the only time that works for your schedule, we can still make magic. Promise.

Best for:

– Families with tight daytime windows.

– City or urban sessions with great architecture.

– Confident, bold photo styles (hello, contrast lovers).

Golden Hour: Warm, Dreamy, and Always Worth the Wait

This is the golden child of natural light photography. (Pun intended.)

Golden hour is the 60–90 minutes before sunset, when the sun dips low and everything turns… well, golden. Skin glows, hair lights up, and the whole world feels a little softer, a little slower.

If you want that sun-soaked, magical look with backlit halos and rich tones—this is it. The light is directional but forgiving, and we can play with a variety of looks as the sun moves.

One note: it’s beautiful, but it’s not always toddler-friendly. If your little one melts down by 6 pm, this might not be your best bet (unless snacks and strollers are involved).

Best for:

– Romantic, glowing family sessions.

– Outdoor fields, tall grasses, and open skies.

– Anyone who wants that soft, dreamy Instagram vibe.

So… What’s Really the Best Time?

Honestly, I’ve had incredible sessions in all types of light, and the key is knowing how to use what we’ve got. It all depends on your family and your vision.

That’s what natural light photography is all about: learning to work with the sun, not against it. Whether we’re chasing light through your kitchen or dancing in a field at sunset, the right light makes all the difference.

Ready to Book?

Let’s find the perfect time for your session: one that fits your life and brings out the best of your story.

Send me a message, and we’ll talk timing, outfits, snacks, and all the good stuff.

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