If you’ve ever done a photo session with me, you’ve probably heard me talk about light. And not just any kind of light: beautiful light. It’s the number one thing I look for during every session. Even when I'm not on a session, I will still notice beautiful light whether I'm out and about or around our own little farm.
While location, wardrobe and posing all play a role in creating beautiful images, nothing compares to the magic that great light can bring to your photos.
So when is the best time of day for equine photography? Hands down: golden hour.
What is golden hour?
Golden hour is that dreamy window of time just after sunrise or just before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. The light is soft, warm and flattering. It’s like nature’s filter and it creates a sense of warmth and serenity that’s hard to replicate at any other time of day.
Why golden hour makes all the difference
Horses have such beautiful detail in their coats, manes and expressions and the right light can really bring that out. Golden hour light helps avoid unflattering shadows or squinting, which is especially important when we’re photographing both horses and people.
That is also one of the reasons why I always photograph with the sun behind my subject(s).
In desert locations like where I shoot here in Arizona, golden hour also helps soften the often stark environment. That warm light can turn a dusty wash or open field into something magical. It’s proof that great light can make even a simple background look incredible.
WHAT IF WE CAN’T SHOOT AT GOLDEN HOUR?
While golden hour is my go-to, I know it’s not always possible. Sometimes weather, schedules or event timelines mean we need to shoot at other times of day and that’s okay! I’ve photographed in all kinds of lighting situations over the years, especially with weddings and I’ve learned how to work with what we have. If we’re shooting mid-day, I’ll look for open shade, backlighting or interesting light patterns to create something beautiful.
The key, no matter the time, is being able to find and use the light in a way that complements the subject.
PLANNING AROUND THE LIGHT
When we plan your session, I’ll always suggest start times based on when the light will be at its best. In the summer, that might mean an early morning session to beat the heat and catch that first soft light. In the fall or winter, we might aim for late afternoon when the sun is lower and the golden tones are rich and deep.
If you're ever unsure, trust that I’ll guide you toward the timing that will make your photos truly shine, literally and figuratively.
In the end, beautiful photos aren’t about perfect backdrops or elaborate setups. They’re about connection, emotion and light.
