When booking a photo session, one of the first things my clients ask is, “What time is my photo session?” You might think, “What works best for my schedule?” or “Can we fit it in after lunch?” While those questions matter, the ultimate answer comes down to one thing: light. Perfect portraits taken in nature (not in a studio) are all about using the sun to create a flattering, natural glow—and the time of day makes all the difference.
In this post, we’ll explore the best times for photo sessions, why light is the star of the show, and how location and weather play a role in choosing the perfect session time.
The Golden Rule of Portrait Timing
Assuming nice weather, the best time for portrait sessions is a hour before sunset. This window, often called “golden hour,” offers soft, warm light that’s incredibly flattering. Harsh shadows disappear, colors are more vibrant, and the entire scene takes on a magical quality.
If you’re aiming for portraits with Denver’s stunning mountain backdrops, this timing is especially important. Because of the land geography and terrain, the sun usually dips behind the mountains earlier than the official sunset time. To capture those dramatic views before the light fades, sessions typically start 2-3 hours prior to sunset.
For example:
- If sunset is at 7:00 PM, your session will likely begin between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
- We finish about an hour before sunset to avoid losing light as it slips behind the mountains.
Why Midday Light Doesn’t Work
It’s tempting to schedule your session for the middle of the day, especially if it’s convenient. But here’s why that’s not possible:
- Harsh Shadows: The midday sun is high in the sky, creating strong shadows on faces. This can make features look unflattering.
- Squinting Eyes: Bright overhead light forces you to squint, making relaxed expressions nearly impossible.
- Washed-Out Colors: Instead of vibrant hues, midday light can make landscapes and skin tones appear flat and dull.
The bottom line? To get those dreamy, glowing portraits you’ve been envisioning, avoid midday light.
What About Sunrise Sessions?
While sunset is the go-to choice for most sessions, sunrise can also be a fantastic option in certain situations. The light is just as soft and beautiful, but it’s coming from the east.
Sunrise sessions work well if:
- You’re photographing a backdrop that faces east, such as certain locations in downtown Denver or iconic college campus buildings.
- You’re deeper in the mountains, in places like Winter Park or certain spots in Vail (or other mountain towns) where morning light illuminates the landscape beautifully.
Keep in mind that sunrise sessions typically start about 15 minutes before the sun peeks over the horizon to make the most of that first light.
Adjusting for Weather
Weather plays a crucial role in deciding the timing of your session. Here’s how it can affect things:
- Overcast Skies: If the forecast calls for heavy clouds, we may need to bump the session earlier to make the most of the available light. While overcast days create soft and even lighting, they can also shorten the window of optimal light.
- Unexpected Sunshine: If the day is sunnier than expected, we’ll work to find shaded spots or adjust the session slightly to avoid harsh conditions.
Weather is one of the few things I can’t control, but rest assured, I always keep an eye on the forecast and will communicate any adjustments well in advance.
The Role of Location
The specific backdrop you choose can also influence the timing of your session. For example:
- Mountain Views: As mentioned earlier, sessions start well before sunset since the sun disappears behind the mountains early.
- Urban Settings: In downtown Denver, sunrise or early morning light sometimes works best to capture iconic buildings without harsh midday shadows.
- Open Fields: Wide-open spaces with no tall obstructions offer flexibility, but golden hour still provides the most flattering light.
When planning your session, I’ll take your preferred location into account to determine the ideal timing.
Trust the Process to Figure Out “What time Is My Photo Session?”
As your photographer, my top priority is ensuring you look and feel amazing in your portraits. That’s why I’m so particular about timing. It’s not about convenience or flexibility—it’s about creating the best possible images.
While it might seem tempting to schedule your session for a time that works around your errands or meetings, trust me when I say: the light won’t wait. You’ll thank yourself later for making the effort to capture your portraits during the best light of the day.
Quick FAQs
When deciding “What time is my photo session,” can we choose a time outside golden hour?
Not unless it’s super cloudy and overcast, or snowing. Assuming nice weather, scheduling a time outside of golden hour will not have the same flattering quality to produce the best images.
What happens if the weather changes?
I monitor the forecast closely. If adjustments are needed, I’ll let you know as soon as possible and work with you to reschedule if necessary.
Can we plan around my kids’ bedtime or other commitments?
I understand the importance of balancing schedules. If you have prior commitments, it’s best to schedule or reschedule your photo session on a day where the late afternoon time is free.
Final Thoughts On Deciding “What Time Is My Photo Session?”
When you’re planning your portrait session, keep in mind that the timing is about more than just convenience—it’s about creating stunning, timeless images. By scheduling your session a few hours before sunset (or at sunrise for certain locations), we’ll take full advantage of the best light nature has to offer.
So, what time is my photo session? Now you know the answer! Let’s work together to make your session unforgettable, with light that highlights your natural beauty and brings your chosen backdrop to life. Contact me here with any questions.
