Oakland, CA – Why Photographers Prefer to Schedule Photo Sessions in the Evening

Most photographers will suggest photo sessions either during the early morning hours or in the evening.

However, you will notice that most of them are happy to recommend photography sessions during the evening. Why do they do that? We have the answer for you right here.

To Get the Golden Hour

Photographers who use natural light want to make the most of the perfect light setting. This happens during the early morning or the evening. Also known as the Golden hour, at this time, the lighting is perfect. Since the sun is lower in the sky, you get softer shadows and the length and angles also look more flattering.

The one downside is that the Golden Hour only lasts for 1 or 1 and a half hour periods. Additionally, most photographers take photos after at least 10 to 15 minutes after sunrise or sunset. This is when the Golden hour becomes extremely beautiful.

Why the Evening?

The Golden Hour happens twice a day, at sunrise or sunset. However, the most usable light lasts for 1 or 1 and a half-hour after the sun has risen or set. In many cases, sunrise golden hours can be hard to use as you have to be at the location by at least 4 am or 5 am.

Luckily, catching the light at sunset means that you have to be ready at 5:30 pm or 6:00 pm. This is a doable time for most people. That’s why you will find that your photographers will schedule evening shoots more.

Why is the Golden Hour so Coveted?

There are a lot of reasons which show just why the Golden Hour is so coveted. The following are some of the major reasons why photographers schedule evening photo sessions:

Perfect Lighting for Any Genre

Different photography genres need different lighting options and cameras. However, that is not the case when you are shooting in the Golden Hour. The best part about the golden hour is that it can be used for a number of different photography styles. It can be applied to the following categories:

• Portraits
• Landscapes
• Pets
• Family
• And even natural photography

Given this flexibility, many photographers will schedule their shoots during the evening when they catch the rays of the sun to maximum benefit.

Extremely Diverse

The most unique thing about the Golden Hour is that the lighting is extremely diverse. While this means that camera settings will constantly have to be changed, it also means that you get a new shot every time. Additionally, the Golden Hour can be different every single day.

On some days, there might be clouds in the sky whereas, in others, the sky could be clear. This all gives you interesting dimensions, shadows and angles to play with.

Conclusion

Most photographers love evening shoots as it gives them an opportunity to get shots in some of the best natural light. Professional photographers also have a lot of equipment that lets them make the most out of this amazing lighting.

For more information about our professional photography, take a look at our services.