How Light Shapes Your Story: A Guide to Photoshoot Lighting

One of the most important elements in photography isn’t the camera, the lens, or even the location—it’s the light.

The way light hits your skin, filters through the trees, bounces off the ground, or wraps around your body completely shapes the emotion and texture of your photos. It’s why I always recommend certain times of day for sessions, and why I plan our shoot with light in mind just as much as anything else.

Here’s a look at the four main lighting conditions I shoot in—and how each one creates a unique mood in your gallery.




By Christy,
Wild & Woven Lens

July 2025

🌞 Golden Hour
My forever favorite. Golden hour is the time shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is low in the sky and everything is bathed in warm, buttery light.

Skin tones glow, shadows soften, and movement looks dreamy and ethereal. It’s perfect for storytelling sessions full of warmth, intimacy, and that cinematic feeling we all love.

It’s also incredibly flattering—think sun flares, golden halos, and a natural glow that brings your story to life.

Best for: Romantic couples sessions, dreamy maternity, barefoot kids, laid-back family sessions, and honestly… everything.




🌌 Blue Hour
Blue hour is that soft, moody window of time just after sunset (or right before sunrise). The light becomes cool, almost silvery, and the sky takes on deep blues and purples.

It’s short—only about 20–30 minutes—but creates such an emotional, cinematic vibe. Think stillness, reflection, and a little bit of magic.

Best for: Intimate couples, elopements, maternity, or anything with a quiet, soulful energy.



☁️ Overcast
Cloudy skies can actually be a photographer’s secret weapon. Overcast lighting is soft and even—no harsh shadows, no squinting, and tons of flexibility in where we shoot.

It gives photos a gentle, muted look that can feel incredibly peaceful and honest. While you may not get sun flares or golden glows, you do get consistent light and beautifully moody tones.

Best for: Families with young kids (because we don’t have to chase shade!), documentary-style sessions, and cozy, emotional portraits.



☀️ Midday / Direct Sun
Midday light is the brightest and harshest—it creates strong shadows, high contrast, and can be tricky to work with. That said, it’s not off-limits! It just requires a bit more intention.

When I shoot in direct sun, I use it creatively—placing you in open shade, using buildings or trees to block light, or leaning into the high-contrast look for a bold, editorial feel.

If you’re open to a little adventure and trust me with the vision, we can make magic even in the brightest part of the day.

Best for: Bold, modern portraits, playful family sessions (especially when the weather won’t cooperate), or when schedules don’t allow for golden hour.