Why Golden Hour is the Best Time for Wedding Photos (+ Tips for Perfect Sunset Shots)

If you’ve ever swooned over wedding photos with a soft, golden glow, chances are they were taken during golden hour—that magical time just before sunset when the light is warm, dreamy, and oh-so-flattering. As a Wilmington, NC wedding photographer, I always recommend scheduling portraits during this time for the most breathtaking images. Here’s why golden hour is the ultimate time for wedding photography and how to make the most of it!

A couple in wedding attire stands silhouetted against a golden sunset with a tree and rolling hills in the background.
A romantic couple shares an intimate moment under sprawling oak trees during their sunset wedding ceremony.

Why Golden Hour is Perfect for Wedding Photos

Soft, Flattering Light – Unlike the harsh midday sun, golden hour light is softer, reducing shadows and creating a natural, ethereal glow. This means flawless skin tones and a romantic ambiance in every shot!

Warm & Dreamy Tones – That signature golden hue adds warmth and depth to your images, making everything look extra magical—especially your love story.

No Harsh Shadows or Squinting – Midday sun can cause squinting and unflattering shadows, but golden hour eliminates those worries, allowing for effortless, natural expressions.

A Romantic, Cinematic Feel – This light gives photos a timeless, editorial-quality look, perfect for couples who want their wedding images to feel both intimate and artistic.

A flowing white wedding gown with long veil billows in the wind against a natural outdoor setting at sunset.
A couple in wedding attire poses together on a sandy beach path at sunset with palm trees in the background.
Newlywed couple shares intimate moment at sunset as groom kisses bride's hand in romantic beach wedding portrait.
A couple in formal wedding attire stands in golden sunlight on a coastal path with marshland and winding waterway at sunset.

How to Plan for the Perfect Golden Hour Photos

Schedule Portraits Strategically – Golden hour lasts about 45 minutes to an hour before sunset. Plan to sneak away during your reception or right after the ceremony for these magical shots.

Check Sunset Times – Depending on the season, sunset times vary. Work with your photographer to find the best timing for your wedding day.

Make it a Private Moment – Use this time to soak in the day as newlyweds. Golden hour portraits are not only stunning but also a special moment to just be together.

Have Fun With It! – Whether you’re twirling in the sunset, sharing a quiet kiss, or popping a bottle of champagne, golden hour is the perfect time for playful, candid, and romantic shots.

Golden hour photography creates some of the most beautiful and memorable wedding images, and I’m always here to help capture that magic! If you're planning your wedding and want those dreamy sunset portraits, let’s chat—I’d love to bring your vision to life.

A couple embraces during a sunset beach wedding, with golden light illuminating the water behind them.
A romantic wedding couple embraces in soft sunlight as a delicate veil flows around them.
Two people sitting on a wooden porch swing overlooking a serene lake at sunset.