The Golden Hour: Why Sunset Makes for Perfect Swansea Wedding Photography

The Gower in Swansea can be an incredible source of inspiration for wedding photographers. With the beaches and cliffs near so many of Swanseas wedding venues, one of the most stunning and widely used natural phenomena in wedding photography is the "golden hour." This magical time occurs just after sunrise and just before sunset, when the light is soft and warm, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere for wedding photographers in Swansea.

But what is the Golden Hour? and why is it so craved amongst wedding photographers and videographers ?

The golden hour is a term used to describe the period of time just after sunrise or just before sunset when the sun is low in the sky, creating a warm, golden light that is softer and more diffused than the harsh light of the midday sun. This time of day is also known as the magic hour or the sweet light, and it is highly sought after by photographers for its stunning natural light. Why is the Golden Hour Perfect for Wedding Photography?

There are several reasons why the golden hour is perfect for wedding photography in Swansea. Firstly, the warm, soft light of the golden hour creates a romantic and dreamy atmosphere that is perfect for capturing the love and emotion of a wedding day. The warm tones of the light can also create a flattering glow on the skin, making the couple look their best. Secondly, the low angle of the sun during the golden hour creates long, soft shadows that can add depth and dimension to wedding photos. This can be especially useful for capturing details like the intricate lace on a wedding dress or the texture of a floral bouquet.

Thirdly, the golden hour provides an opportunity to capture stunning landscapes and backdrops. During this time, the sky can be a beautiful mix of pink, orange, and red hues, creating a breathtaking backdrop for wedding photos. This is especially true for outdoor weddings, where the natural beauty of the surroundings can be highlighted during the golden hour.

Tips for Capturing Perfect Golden Hour Wedding Photos

Plan Ahead :

To make the most of the golden hour, it's important to plan ahead. Check the weather forecast and the time of the sunset to ensure that you are in the right place at the right time. This can involve scouting the wedding venue beforehand to identify the best spots for photos during the golden hour.

Shoot in Manual Mode:

Shooting in manual mode can give you greater control over your camera settings, allowing you to make the most of the golden hour light. For example, by adjusting the aperture and shutter speed, you can create a shallow depth of field that blurs the background and makes the couple stand out.

Use a Reflector:

Using a reflector during the golden hour can help to bounce light onto the couple, creating a more even and flattering light. This is especially useful if the couple is backlit by the sun during the golden hour.

Embrace the Natural Light:

One of the most important aspects of capturing golden hour wedding photos is to embrace the natural light. Avoid using harsh artificial lights or flash, as this can detract from the natural beauty of the golden hour light.

Capture Candid Moments:

The golden hour is the perfect time to capture candid moments between the couple, such as a stolen kiss or a tender embrace. These natural moments can be enhanced by the soft, dreamy light of the golden hour, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

Experiment with Different Angles:

Experimenting with different angles during the golden hour can help to create unique and interesting photos. For example, shooting from a low angle can create a dramatic effect, while shooting from a high angle can capture the surrounding landscape and create a sense of scale.

I often find that off camera flash makes for the best wedding photography sunset photos as this also brings drama and a sharpness to my photography. I've been lucky enough to capture some amazing wedding photos at Oxwich beach in the Gower and also worms head over the years working as a Swansea wedding photographer.