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What time of day should we have our Engagement Session?

Writer's picture: Jaclyn Kushner PhotographyJaclyn Kushner Photography

A couple kisses in a grassy field at sunset. The woman wears a floral dress, the man a pink shirt. Trees and a monument in the background. Romantic mood.

One of the most important factors in creating

stunning, romantic engagement photos 

is choosing the perfect time of day.


Lighting plays a huge role in the

overall feel of your images,

which is why I always recommend

scheduling your session during Golden Hour

—the two hours before sunset 

for that dreamy, soft glow.



Here’s a breakdown of ideal start times based on the season 

so you can plan for the best light possible!


 

engagement session new hope pa

🌨️ Winter Engagement Sessions

(December – March) | 3:00 – 6:00 PM


During the winter months, the sun sets much earlier,

which means your session will start between 3:00 and 5:00 PM.


If your engagement session takes place in mid-March,

daylight saving time will push sunset an hour later,

allowing us to begin around 4:00 – 6:00 PM instead.


💡 Tip: Winter sessions can be extra cozy!

Think neutral layers, elegant coats,

and even a fun scarf or blanket wrap 

for a warm, stylish look.



 

valley forge park engagement session

🌸 Spring Engagement Sessions

(April – May) | 5:30 – 8:00 PM


Spring brings longer days and unpredictable sunsets,

so session start times shift throughout the season.


  • April: 5:30 – 7:30 PM

  • May: 6:00 – 8:00 PM


💡 Tip: Spring is ideal for gardens,

cherry blossoms,

and colorful floral backdrops. 


If you love pastels and fresh blooms,

this is your season!



 

Long Beach Island LBI NJ engagement session

☀️ Summer Engagement Sessions

(June – August) | 6:30 – 8:30 PM


Summer is all about those long, golden evenings,

and we take full advantage of them!

With sunset happening later in the day,

sessions typically start around 6:30 – 8:30 PM.


Scheduling during this time not only

gives us that glowy, cinematic light,

but it also helps us

avoid the heat of midday sun.


💡 Tip: Want a beach or waterfront session?

Summer evenings are perfect for it! 

The lighting, temperature,

and ambiance create an incredible

backdrop for your love story.



 

Franklin Institute Museum engagement session

🍂 Fall Engagement Sessions

(September – November) | 3:00 – 7:30 PM


Fall sunsets change quickly,

so we adjust session times accordingly:


  • Early September: 5:30 – 7:30 PM

  • Late September – Mid-October: 5:00 – 7:00 PM

  • November: 3:00 – 5:00 PM (due to daylight saving time)


Fall’s warm tones, crisp air,

and cozy vibes 

make it a dream season

for engagement photos.



💡 Tip: Embrace earthy tones,

textured fabrics,

and layers 

for a seasonal

and timeless look.



 


No matter the season, Golden Hour is key to capturing natural, radiant, and romantic engagement photos. Choosing the right time will ensure your images have that soft, glowing light that flatters every couple!


📸 Planning your engagement session?

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