When is the best time to take outdoor portraits? That is one of our most frequently asked questions. The short answer would be “when the light is best.”

Sometimes you have to photograph when the event is scheduled and selecting the time isn’t an option, but if you do have a choice….

It’s called the Golden Hour.

It’s the period shortly after sunrise or shortly before sunset. It can be an inconvenient time of day and light conditions are fleeting—so how do professionals remedy these challenges? Here are our top three choices.

#1 Choice

For portrait sessions of families with small children or large reunion groups with varied ages, our 1^st choice is morning, during the few hours just after the golden hour. That’s when the light is super-soft and more flattering.

Soft Morning Light

Yes, it can be hard to get kids up, fed, dressed in their portrait best, and to the session location but we find (especially when photographing families on vacation) the kids are fresher in the morning and less weary from the day’s busy activities.

Teens may be a little grumpy from sleep deprivation but they will smile when the camera is pointed at them.

#2 Choice

Late afternoon, during the few hours just before the golden hour, is our 2^nd choice. The light gets noticeably warmer and deep shadows form, which can add interest to your portraits.

However, to get all the portraits you want during late afternoon sessions, attention to the clock is critical as lighting conditions change quickly as the sun descends.

Depending on the season, late afternoons can be hot and humid or cold and brisk, both of which can be challenging when photographing small children and the elderly whose moods and health are most affected by the weather conditions.

Late Afternoon Light

#3 Choice

Anytime on a cloudy day is good for outdoor portraits as the clouds diffuse the sun’s rays by creating a natural “soft box” (type of indoor studio light). Lighting generally remains more consistent throughout the session and you won’t have harsh shadows. It also frees you to use different backgrounds that are not ideal on sunny days.

Cloudy doesn’t mean full overcast with dark clouds. Those conditions require lighting equipment and skill to create natural looking portraits. The same goes for mid-day portraits where professional know how is needed.

Cloudy and Overcast Light

People look best when shadows on their faces are soft and diffused so harness natural light when the sun is lower on the horizon and acting as a natural filter. Let nature help put your subjects in their best light.