Golden Hour Explained: Best Times for Outdoor Family Portraits

There is something truly magical about the golden hour. If you have ever looked at one of my sunlit photos and thought, how is the light so soft and warm, this is the secret. The golden hour is my favorite time to photograph families, especially here in Fort Worth where the sunsets often wrap everything in a warm, buttery glow. It is more than just good lighting. It sets the tone for calm, connection, and those sweet in-between moments I love to capture.

What Is the Golden Hour?

Golden hour refers to the timespan just after sunrise and the hour just before sunset. During these times, the sun is lower in the sky and creates soft light, long shadows, and a warm tone that flatters every skin tone. There is less harsh contrast, fewer squinty eyes, and more opportunity for movement, cuddles, and play. That is why golden hour is such a perfect match for outdoor family portraits.

Why It Is the Best Time for Family Portraits

Photographing during golden hour helps create that timeless, sun-kissed look you see throughout my work. Little ones look extra sweet bathed in this golden light, and parents often comment on how peaceful and relaxed they felt during their session. There is a quiet, almost sacred feeling to the air. The light wraps around your family just right, making every hug and handhold look like it belongs in a storybook.

When to Schedule Your Session

In the summer, golden hour usually begins about sixty to ninety minutes before sunset, which means evening sessions often start around seven thirty or eight o’clock. In the cooler months, golden hour comes earlier, so we often begin around four thirty or five. I always help families plan for the best time based on the season and your little ones’ routines, so there is no need to stress about tracking the sun.

A Few Helpful Tips for Golden Hour Magic

• Pack a snack and water if your session overlaps with dinner
• Choose soft, neutral tones that complement the golden light
• Let little ones take a later nap that day if possible
• Embrace movement and play because this light loves joy

Golden hour is not just a time of day. Instead, it is a feeling. And with a little planning, it becomes the perfect backdrop for photos that feel like home.

Let Us Soak in the Sunshine Together

If you are dreaming of warm, glowing portraits with your favorite people, I would love to help bring that vision to life. Whether you are celebrating a milestone, welcoming a new baby, or simply want to hold onto the beauty of this season, golden hour is calling. Let us plan a session that feels as joyful and gentle as the light itself.