Have you ever wondered what time of day is the best time for photos?
Let’s face it it’s usually easier to schedule things on a weekend but I will always recommend the opposite
Distractions are a normal part of most sessions. From other dogs to people to squirrels and smells there’s plenty of reason for a dog to be distracted. Obviously if your dog is anxious or reactive we will try to avoid triggers at all costs by picking the best time and location for them
Weekdays are always less busy then weekends when it come to local parks and locations. There are just generally less people out and about. That is why I will recommend a weekday evening or a weekend evening whenever possible. Summer time evenings are easier due to later sunsets. It’s harder in the winter to do weekday evenings due to the sun setting at 4to 5 pm. At least during winter most places tend to be less busy.
What time of day is the best for photo sessions?
The closer to sunrise and sunset the better! The middle of the day sun leaves you with little to no shade as well as harsh shadows on you and your pets face. If sunset is at 6:15pm I will suggest an hour session starting at 5. You’ll get enough light for fu action shots like running and then that beautiful golden light near the end. If your session happens in a forest, valley or somewhere the sun sets ridge earlier than normal we would adjust to do photos slightly earlier.
During the summer a weekday evening session is easier, it’s usually after dinner and after work, no brainer.
Later fall is when it’s gets tricker. With sunsets happening at 4:45 to 5pm, sessions need to start between 3:30-4. What I recommend if it’s possible taking an hour or two off work for one day. Have a fun session and when you’re still all dolled up turn it into a weekday date with your dog or partner or family
Sunrise sessions are also an amazing option if you’re up for it.
These would take place right at sunrise. Get up get going and do photos before heading off to work! Believe me when I wake up at 6am I’m not always a happy camper, but after doing sunrise photos I’ve never regretted it. You usually have the whole park to yourself and beautiful morning light streaming through the trees lighting up the beautiful shining dew on the grass. Winter sunrises can also be as late as 8am for those who wouldn’t enjoy summer sunrises at 6am.
Think about the landscape
Sessions taking place in a forest or valley could use more light so happening 2-3 hours before sunset works great. Places with open prairie or a lake you want to get closer to sunset to really enjoy that golden hour. If you are near tall buildings or mountains you’ll have to factor in when the sun sets behind those things, not necessarily what time the sun actually sets. My backyard has tons of really tall thick trees. I try to do any rescue photos at least 45 minutes before actually sunset because it gets so dark by the time sunset truly happens.
Read to talk about when would be the best time for YOUR session. Contact me today