If you’ve ever worked with me, then you know that there are typically two times of day that I prefer to start photo shoots (when they are outdoors):
• Right at sunrise (like 5 minutes before)
• An hour and a half to 2 hours before sunset
And I will always, always opt for the sunrise start time over the sunset time, even though that means we may have to wake up at 3:45 am. 🙂 I am sure you’re wondering (and I totally don’t blame you): “Courtney! Why do you do crazy things like recommend I get up at 4:00 in the morning?!?!” But trust me, there really is a method to the madness. Here are a few of the reasons why you should consider waking up a little early to get those desired shots of you and your honey:
• Quality of light: Light changes at every moment during the course of the day. The light you get at sunrise is soft, flattering, and less intense than any light you will see at any other point during the day. You also won’t see those harsh shadows on your face. And since it won’t be as warm in the morning as it will be later on in the day, you won’t have to worry about sweating.
• Fewer crowds: In Los Angeles, there are a couple of places where I really enjoy shooting (and where couples love to go to be photographed). The only issue is, a LOT of people enjoy going to these places as well. When you do early morning shoots, you greatly reduce the likelihood that there will be other people there, thus making random people accidentally photo bombing your photos even less of a possibility.
• You get to see the sunrise: I mean, seriously, who doesn’t like to see the sunrise? Yes, you may have to get up earlier than you’d prefer, but you are handsomely rewarded when the sky turns an awesome pinkish/yellowish/orange color right as the sun peeks from the horizon. It’s such a sight! And you can treat yourself to a little breakfast after. 🙂
