Sunrise or Sunset for Engagement Photos?
If you have talked to a photographer about wedding and engagement photos, chances are they have tried to convince you to free up your wedding day timeline (or day to day schedule) in the hour before the sun sets. This time of day is lovingly referred to as “golden hour”. I love that name, don’t you? Golden hour makes me think of myself as a Greek goddess with sparkly suntanned skin and a perfect sunshine glow. This is basically exactly what it is.
Except did you know there is a second golden hour and it is (in my opinion) BETTER?! Let’s talk about sunrise folks. Yes, sunrise. Do you want me to pause so you can make yourself a cup of coffee (or eight?!)? Sunrise golden hour brings with it the sweet silence of morning whereas sunset bombards you with everyone under the sun (had to sneak in that pun!) trying to take selfies with the pretty backdrop. At sunrise there is no location scouting necessary. Step outside and have the sky, the sun, THE WORLD to yourself. Also, in summertime a great sunset is more often that not a fluke. You need the perfect cloud coverage — not too much and not too little. You definitely don’t want an afternoon storm, something Colorado is famous for. Sunrise 98% of the time = perfection.
Scared your significant other will slap you silly when you ask them to get up before the sun? Promise them an epic brunch for after the shoot. Mimosas anyone?!
3 Main Reasons Sunrise Beats Sunset in Colorado
- Softer Light: Morning golden hour transitions into bright, crisp daylight, giving your gallery clear mountain backdrops without harsh mid-day glares.
- Zero Crowds: Popular Colorado trailheads and scenic lookouts fill up quickly by evening. Sunrise gives you quiet, intimate access to top photo spots.
- Predictable Weather: Colorado afternoon thunderstorms frequently disrupt sunset sessions. Morning skies are typically calm, clear, and stable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sunrise or sunset better for engagement photos?
Sunrise is often better for engagement photos in popular outdoor locations like Colorado because it offers empty locations, cooler temperatures, and lower chances of afternoon rain.
What should we wear to an early morning engagement shoot?
Layering is key for morning sessions. Bring cozy blankets or warm jackets for the dawn setup, and strip down to your primary outfit as the sun rises.
Looking for Longmont Wedding Photographers?
Are you ready to take some epic engagement photos? I would love to help out! I love exploring everything from old barns to mountain peaks to open fields.
As a local Longmont wedding photographer, I love helping couples plan the perfect morning session across Colorado’s front range.
