Welcome to another exciting blog post where we take you behind the scenes of a golden hour wedding shoot! In our latest YouTube video, “Behind the Scenes: Golden Hour Wedding Shoot,” we share the magic that happens during this special time of the day, giving you an insider look at how we capture those breathtaking moments. Whether you’re a photographer looking for tips or a couple planning your wedding, this post is packed with insights and inspiration.
The Magic of Golden Hour
Golden hour, the period just after sunrise or before sunset, is a photographer’s dream. The light is soft, warm, and perfect for creating romantic, glowy images. On wedding days, this time is particularly special. Couples are usually more relaxed and free-spirited, allowing for natural and candid shots that truly capture their love and joy.
Annie and Michael’s Golden Hour Session
In our video, we showcase a golden hour wedding shoot with Annie and Michael, a truly amazing couple whose chemistry shines through. This session was actually part two of their photoshoot, with part one focusing on our four go-to poses for golden hour portraits which you can watch HERE. These poses differ from earlier in the day because the couple is no longer constrained by wardrobe worries and are more at ease.
Creating the Perfect Atmosphere
During golden hour, our goal is to create an atmosphere where the couple can simply enjoy each other’s company. This is not the time for rigid poses or forced smiles. Instead, we encourage natural interactions, snuggles, light kisses, and playful moments. As seen in the video, we guide Annie and Michael to wrap up, walk together, and share intimate gestures. These actions not only create beautiful photos but also help the couple make lasting memories.
Tips for Photographers
Here are some tips from our golden hour wedding shoot that you can incorporate into your own sessions:
- Start with Familiarity: Get to know your couple beforehand. We had photographed Michael’s brother’s wedding, so we already had a connection with them, which made them more comfortable and natural during the shoot.
- Use Prompts: Instead of rigid posing, use light prompts to guide your couple. For instance, asking them to walk together or share a kiss can lead to genuine moments.
- Maximize Location: Golden hour offers more flexibility with lighting, allowing you to explore different parts of the venue that may not have been suitable earlier in the day. We took advantage of the softer light to capture shots in various scenic spots around the venue.
- Create an Experience: Focus on making the shoot an enjoyable experience. Encourage the couple to interact with each other rather than the camera. This approach helps them to relax and results in more authentic photos.
- Be Efficient: Golden hour is brief, so have a clear plan. We mapped out a circular route around the venue to make the most of our time, ensuring we captured a variety of backgrounds and lighting conditions.
Why Golden Hour is Essential
Golden hour wedding shoots are more than just a photography session; they are a unique opportunity for couples to connect and create beautiful memories. The soft, flattering light enhances the photos, making them look magical and romantic. As a photographer, mastering golden hour techniques can elevate your portfolio and offer your clients an unforgettable experience.
Our behind-the-scenes look at a golden hour wedding shoot with Annie and Michael highlights the importance of this special time of day. By creating a relaxed atmosphere, using natural prompts, and making the most of the location, you can capture stunning, authentic moments that your clients will cherish forever.
Don’t forget to check out the full video on our YouTube channel HERE for more tips and a detailed walkthrough of the shoot. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes content and photography tips. Happy shooting!
