Photographing Couples in Sunset vs mid-day light

Sunset vs Mid-day for Capturing Stunning Couple Photos

The difference between Sunset photos and Mid-day photos for wedding and elopement adventure couples.
Yosemite National Park Wedding & Engagement Photography

I just photographed a couple in Yosemite National Park yesterday. No this was not the proposal photo of the engaged couple that was in the news this week. I was here at sunset the whole time and didn’t see any proposal at that rock.  I was their photographer and this was their engagement session and they upgraded to the Adventure Engagement Session Package, which many of my adventure wedding couples purchase. They are getting married next year at Majestic Lodge in the Yosemite Valley, so congratulations to them.

When I photograph couples, the ideal time for me is near sunset. That’s my goal and intention for every couple. Not all couples during their wedding day or adventure sessions understand the importance of the quality of light during sunset, so I have to explain to them. Also, for many weddings, sometimes the schedule gets bumped or couples don’t have the time. Yes, we can photograph in any light, but in the mountains like in Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, or anywhere up at high altitude, you are going to get even stronger highlights on rocks and trees, white lighting, harsh shadows, etc. So I use all kinds of tricks and tactics to get better photos during the day.

However, if you are patient and wait until sunset, then you get all kinds of beautiful rays, warmth, color, and not to mention, softer light. The images look moody. It’s eye candy; makes you want to stare for a while.

Mid-Day vs Sunset Lighting

Okay, so it’s not necessarily mid-day, but it’s not sunset yet. Here above is an example of two images, one hour 12 minutes apart from each other. Both images were with the same couple, same outfit, same location, same day, same Nikon camera and lens, just about an hour apart. The sunset that day was 6:18p.m. I photographed the afternoon image on the left at 4:56p.m. The light was behind them. That image works. Most couples love these types of images as I see them on Instagram all the time. However, when you wait until 6:08p.m., just 7 minutes before the sunset, then you get this warm moody tone image where the sun warmth is memorizing. A major difference in color and light is just within one hour.

Sunrise has the same effect and I also photograph elopements and weddings during the early mornings, like in Yosemite or Lake Tahoe. You just have to choose the right locations where the sun will rise with the right photographer who can capture it properly and direct you to get that natural look, as well as process your image for maximum effect. Below is an image at sunset

If you’re interested in getting couples sunset photos, or want to book an adventure wedding or elopement package, please contact me above at my contact link. I’d love to hear from you.

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