Golden hour - those fleeting moments just after sunrise or before sunset - is pure magic for photographers and clients alike when it comes to shooting portrait photography.
The warm, soft light transforms outdoor portraits into something truly special, creating a glow that’s impossible to replicate at any other time of day.
As a professional photographer based in Cardiff, I’ve captured countless stunning images during golden hour at many different locations across South Wales, and I’m here to share why this time of day is worth planning your shoot around.
What is Golden Hour?
Golden hour refers to the hour immediately after sunrise and the hour before sunset.
During this time, the sun is lower in the sky, casting warm, diffused light that enhances colours and textures while softening shadows.
The result? A naturally flattering light that elevates your outdoor portraits.
Golden hour at Nash Point in the Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales
Why Golden Hour is a Photographer’s Dream
1. Soft, Even Lighting
The harsh midday sun creates strong shadows and highlights, but golden hour light is beautifully diffused. This makes it perfect for flattering portraits, whether it’s a romantic couple’s shoot or a solo portrait session.
2. Warm Tones
The golden hues during this time create a natural warmth in photos. These tones add a dreamy, cinematic quality to images, making your portraits look like they belong in a magazine spread.
3. Natural Glow
Golden hour light gives skin a radiant, healthy glow. No filters or editing tricks are needed to achieve this effect - it’s all thanks to Mother Nature.
4. Dramatic Backdrops
From the vivid skies of a Cardiff evening to the gentle mist of a South Wales morning, golden hour creates breath-taking backdrops that add depth and drama to your photos.
Read: How to Pose Like a Pro
How to Make the Most of Golden Hour
1. Plan Ahead
Golden hour doesn’t last long, so timing is everything. Use apps or check online tools to know exactly when sunrise and sunset occur in your location.
2. Choose the Right Location
Outdoor spots like Cardiff Bay, Roath Park, or the rolling hills and array of coastlines across South Wales provide ideal settings. Open areas with a clear view of the horizon allow you to make the most of the light.
3. Outfit Choices Matter
Opt for clothing in soft, neutral tones or pastels to complement the warm golden light. Avoid overly bold patterns that might clash with the natural hues of the environment.
4. Trust Your Photographer
Golden hour photography requires quick adjustments to changing light. As an experienced photographer, I’ll guide you through poses and angles to make the most of the magic hour.
Golden Hour in Cardiff and South Wales
Golden hour is particularly stunning in Cardiff and South Wales when we're lucky enough to get a (mostly) clear and sunny day, thanks to our diverse landscapes.
Beaches like Ogmore-by-Sea offer open vistas for breath-taking sunsets, while the Brecon Beacons and other nearby forestry or parkland spots provide dramatic scenery bathed in golden light.
Whether you’re looking for urban charm or natural beauty, this region offers countless spots to make your golden hour portraits unforgettable.
Why Golden Hour is Worth the Early Alarm or Late Start
It’s true - golden hour requires a bit of effort. But the results are worth it. Whether it’s the soft shadows, the glowing skin tones, or the awe-inspiring skies, photos taken during golden hour exude a magic that no artificial lighting can replicate.
Natural, candid portraiture or lifestyle-type photography during a sunrise or sunset is without doubt my favourite when it comes to people-photography.
Book Your Golden Hour Session Today!
Ready to experience the magic of golden hour for yourself?
Whether you’re looking for engagement photos, family portraits, or a solo model portfolio photoshoot, I’d love to help you create timeless images during this beautiful time of day.
