Eloping allows you to focus on your love story in a way that feels authentic and personal. But one of the biggest factors that can make or break your elopement photos is the time of day you choose for your ceremony and portraits. Lighting, atmosphere, and even the mood of your images are all influenced by the time you say “I do.” Here’s how to pick the perfect time for stunning, unforgettable elopement photos.
- Golden Hour: The Most Magical Time for Photos
Best for: Romantic, soft, and dreamy images
Golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—is widely considered the best time for elopement photography. The soft, warm glow of the sun creates breathtaking images with rich colors and natural contrast.
Why Choose Golden Hour?
- The warm, golden light is flattering for all skin tones.
- It reduces harsh shadows, creating a soft and ethereal look.
- The sky often displays stunning hues of orange, pink, and purple, adding a magical backdrop.
Pro Tip: If you’re eloping at a busy location, sunrise golden hour is the best choice to avoid crowds while still capturing that perfect lighting.
- Sunrise: A Quiet and Intimate Option
Best for: Secluded locations, adventurous hikes, and peaceful vibes
If you’re eloping outdoors, sunrise can offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The soft morning light, cooler temperatures, and quiet atmosphere make it an incredible time for intimate, breathtaking portraits.
Benefits of a Sunrise Elopement:
- You’ll have the location almost entirely to yourselves.
- The soft pastel hues of early morning light create a dreamy aesthetic.
- It’s perfect for mountain elopements, where early morning fog and cool air add a mystical touch.
Pro Tip: Be sure to wake up early and plan for travel time—hiking to a scenic sunrise spot requires preparation!
3. Midday: Bright and Bold, but Tricky
Best for: Beach elopements, urban settings, and adventurous couples
Midday elopements can be challenging because the sun is at its highest point, creating harsh shadows and bright highlights. However, it’s not impossible to get stunning shots with the right adjustments.
How to Make Midday Photos Work:
- Look for shaded areas to diffuse harsh light.
- Use a sheer veil or umbrella to soften shadows.
- Opt for cloudy days, which act as natural light diffusers.
Pro Tip: If you must elope at midday, consider waterfront locations, where light reflections from the water can balance exposure and add a glowing effect to your photos.
4. Blue Hour: A Moody and Cinematic Choice
Best for: Couples who love moody, dramatic, and artistic photography
Blue hour occurs just before sunrise or after sunset, when the sky takes on deep blue and purple tones. This time is ideal for silhouettes, cityscape shots, and candlelit ceremonies.
Why Choose Blue Hour?
- It creates a unique, cinematic, and moody atmosphere.
- Perfect for dramatic elopements with city lights or mountain backdrops.
- Works beautifully with lanterns, fairy lights, or bonfires for a cozy, intimate feel.
Pro Tip: Blue hour lighting is very low, so your photographer may need to use additional light sources or longer exposure settings for the best results.
- Nighttime: A Bold and Unconventional Choice
Best for: Adventurous, artistic couples who love creative shots
While nighttime elopements are rare, they can result in some of the most unique and magical images. Whether under the stars, with city lights in the background, or illuminated by a candlelit ceremony, nighttime photos have a special kind of romance.
How to Get Stunning Nighttime Shots:
- Use string lights, candles, or lanterns to create a warm glow.
- Look for areas with soft ambient lighting, such as a city skyline.
- Opt for long exposure shots to capture starry skies or light trails.
Pro Tip: If you dream of a starry night elopement, choose a remote location away from city light pollution for the best celestial views.
Choosing the Right Time for Your Elopement Photos
The time of day you choose for your elopement will significantly impact the overall look and feel of your images. Whether you prefer the soft glow of golden hour, the quiet serenity of sunrise, the bold light of midday, the artistic tones of blue hour, or the magic of a nighttime ceremony, your decision should reflect the vibe you want for your elopement.
Need an expert photographer to capture your elopement at the perfect time of day? Contact us today to discuss your vision, and let’s create unforgettable images that tell your love story!
This post was written by a professional at Ra Weddings Photography. Ra Weddings Photography, nestled in the heart of Tampa Bay, captures timeless moments with artistry. Specializing in wedding photos, engagement pictures, and tampa elopement photographer, they bring a distinctive blend of creativity and professionalism to every shoot.