Why Sunset is the Perfect Time for Your Maternity or Family Photo Shoot in Savannah

May 16

When it comes to planning a maternity or family photo shoot in Savannah, timing is everything. And if you want to achieve that magical, golden-hour glow in your images, there's no better time than sunset! Here's why scheduling your outdoor photo shoot during golden hour can make all the difference in capturing stunning, soft-lit portraits that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

1. Soft Shadows for Flattering Portraits: Have you ever noticed how harsh the shadows can be when the sun is overhead and at its brightest? Those unflattering shadows can cast unappealing lines on your face and body, not to mention creating distracting shadows under your eyes and chin. But during sunset, the sun's angle is lower, creating soft, diffused light that gently illuminates your features and minimizes harsh shadows. This softer lighting is more flattering and creates a natural, radiant glow in your portraits.

2. Avoid Squinting and Closed Eyes: On bright, sunny days, it's natural to squint to protect your eyes from the intense light. But squinting can also lead to smaller or closed eyes in photos, causing you to miss those perfect shots. By scheduling your family or maternity photo shoot during sunset, you can avoid the glare of the midday sun and the accompanying squinting. With softer, more diffused light, your eyes will be open and bright, allowing you to capture those genuine expressions and moments without any blinks.

3. Even Lighting for Balanced Images: When the sun is high and bright, the light can be unevenly distributed, resulting in stark contrasts between the foreground, background, and everything in between. This uneven lighting can detract from the overall aesthetic of your images, making them appear harsh and less appealing. However, during sunset, the landscape is bathed in soft, even light, creating a balanced and harmonious composition. Every element of your photo, from the foreground to the background, is illuminated evenly, resulting in a more visually pleasing image.

4. Embrace Golden Hour Vibes: If you're a fan of rich, warm, sunlit images, then golden hour is your time to shine. Contrary to popular belief, those dreamy, sun-kissed photos aren't captured when the sun is at its highest and brightest. Instead, they're achieved during the golden hour, when the sun is low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow across the landscape. This soft, diffused light creates a magical atmosphere that enhances the beauty of your surroundings and adds a touch of romance to your portraits.

In conclusion, scheduling your maternity or family photo shoot during sunset is the perfect way to capture stunning, soft-lit portraits that exude warmth, beauty, and charm. By avoiding harsh shadows, squinting, and uneven lighting, you'll be able to create images that are as flattering as they are captivating.

Not sure what time of day this may fall? Check out this handy sunset calendar! I will also work closely with you on your location as the sun may be obstructed earlier or later in the day from trees, hills, etc.

So embrace the golden hour vibes and let the magic of sunset illuminate your next photo shoot. Contact me for more info!