When scheduling your on-location photography session, choosing the right time is crucial to capturing the most stunning images. At Kelseycharmayne Photography, based in Livonia, Michigan, I recommend starting your session approximately 30 minutes before the golden hour. Here’s why this timing is ideal for achieving the best lighting and enhancing the overall quality of your photographs:

Golden Hour Magic In Michigan

What is Golden Hour? Golden hour refers to the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the natural light is soft, warm, and diffused. This time of day provides a beautiful, golden glow that enhances the warmth and richness of your photos.

Perfect Lighting: Starting your session 30 minutes before golden hour lets me make the most of this magical light. The gradual transition into golden hour provides a chance to capture a range of lighting conditions, from the soft early light to the more intense golden glow.

Optimal Lighting Conditions

Soft and Flattering Light: This time's soft, diffused light is ideal for creating flattering and natural-looking portraits. It minimizes harsh shadows and highlights, producing a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing image.

Warm Tones: The warm hues of golden hour lighting add a beautiful golden tone to your photographs, enhancing skin tones and creating a welcoming, inviting atmosphere in your images.

Extended Session Time

Adjusting to Lighting: By starting 30 minutes before the golden hour, we have ample time to adapt to changing light conditions and experiment with different angles and compositions. This flexibility ensures we capture a variety of beautiful shots.

Preparation and Warm-Up: Arriving early allows us to prepare the location, get comfortable with the setting, and engage in a relaxed warm-up. This helps everyone feel more at ease and ready for the session, resulting in more natural and authentic images.

Capture a Range of Shots

Variety of Lighting: Starting earlier allows us to capture images in the softer light before golden hour and the more dramatic, golden tones as the sun sets. This variety adds depth and interest to your photo collection.

Scenic Opportunities: The extended time provides the opportunity to explore different areas of the location, experiment with various compositions, and make the most of the beautiful scenery. This results in a diverse set of photographs that tell a complete story.

Avoiding Time Constraints

Less Pressure: We avoid the pressure of a rushed shoot by scheduling the session to start before the golden hour. The extra time ensures we can fully explore the location, capture a range of images, and enjoy the process without time constraints.

Relaxed Experience: Starting early allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. You can take your time, interact naturally, and focus on having fun while I capture the special moments.

Maximize the Natural Beauty

Enhanced Scenery: The golden hour light accentuates the natural beauty of the surroundings, whether it’s a lush park, a picturesque beach, or a charming urban setting. This light enhances your photographs' overall aesthetic and highlights the location's beauty.

Timeless Appeal: The warm, golden tones of this lighting create a timeless and classic look that will be cherished for years to come. It adds a sense of nostalgia and elegance to your images, making them even more special.

Experience the Best Lighting with KelseyCharmayne Photography

At Kelseycharmayne Photography, starting your on-location session 30 minutes before golden hour is key to capturing stunning, high-quality images. This timing allows us to take full advantage of the beautiful natural light, creating warm, flattering, and truly memorable photographs.

Contact me today if you’re ready to schedule your on-location photography session and make the most of the golden hour light. Let’s create beautiful, timeless images you and your family will treasure for years.

Email: Kelsey@kelseycharmayne.com