If you have ever wondered why outdoor portraits are so often scheduled late in the day, the answer is the light.
What is golden hour?
Golden hour is the time shortly before sunset (and after sunrise) when the sun sits low in the sky. Its light travels through more of the atmosphere, so it arrives softer and warmer.
Why it flatters
- Soft shadows: low light wraps around faces instead of creating harsh shadows under the eyes.
- Warm color: skin tones glow and landscapes turn gold.
- Dramatic skies: the sky can light up in orange and purple, especially when clouds roll over the Bighorns.
How we plan for it
Sunset time changes through the year, so session times change too. We also plan for terrain — in the foothills, a ridge can hide the sun earlier than you expect.
What if it is cloudy?
Clouds can create some of the most striking skies. Even on an overcast evening, soft light is still flattering, and we will keep an eye on the forecast together.
Questions, answered
When is golden hour?
Roughly the hour before sunset and the hour after sunrise. The exact time changes with the season and location.