What are the best times of day for wedding photos?

The hour after the ceremony is golden because everyone is together, happy and dressed up. Use this time for group shots and formal portraits while the energy is high. The hour before sunset, often called the golden hour, gives you warm, gentle light that flatters skin and adds a romantic glow. This is ideal for the two of you alone, away from guests.

Avoid the middle of the day when the sun is high and harsh, creating strong shadows and squinting. If your wedding is in winter, the golden hour comes earlier, so check the sunset time for your date and plan accordingly. For indoor venues, look for large windows with soft, diffused light, and ask your photographer to scout the best spots beforehand.

Think about your meal and speeches too. A common plan is to do photos before the ceremony, then a quick group session straight after, and save the couple portraits for sunset. This keeps guests waiting less and gives you a breather. Whatever you choose, build in buffer time so you are never rushing. Your photographer will guide you, but these two windows are the safest bets for beautiful, timeless images.