Ceremony Timing Advice from a Tennessee Wedding Photographer

Choosing the best timing for your wedding ceremony in tennessee is more than just a logistical decision—it can significantly impact the overall atmosphere and aesthetics of your special day. One of the most sought-after times for wedding photography in Tennessee is the golden hour, a magical period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and golden.

Post of my couples want those magical, glowy images you get with golden hour, but in order to take those, you need to choose your ceremony time wisely! If you decide to do a first look at your wedding, you won’t need as much time after to take photos. But, if you choose to not see each other before your wedding, you will need to factor in more time for photos after, like your family, full bridal party, and of course, LOTS of couples photos.

Here’s why timing your ceremony around the golden hour can make a world of difference in your wedding photos:

1. Breathtaking Lighting:

• Soft and flattering: Golden hour light casts a soft, diffused glow that flatters every skin tone and creates a romantic ambiance.
• Dreamy and cinematic: The warm tones of the golden hour light can add a dreamy, cinematic quality to your photos, making them truly unforgettable.

2. Stunning Backdrops:

• Golden hues: The golden hour light can transform even the most ordinary backdrops into stunning photographic scenes.
• Enhanced colors: The warm light enhances the colors of your surroundings, creating a vibrant and visually appealing backdrop for your photos.

3. Romantic Atmosphere:

• Intimate and magical: The soft, warm light of the golden hour creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for wedding ceremonies.
• Unforgettable memories: The golden hour setting can add a touch of magic to your wedding day, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tips for Timing Your Wedding Ceremony Around the Golden Hour:

• Consider your location: Research the sunrise and sunset times for your wedding location to determine the best time for your ceremony. Here’s my advise for the PERFECT ceremony time based on the months of the year if you are centering it around golden hour:
  • January: 3:00pm
  • February: 3:30pm
  • March: 4:00pm
  • April: 5:00pm
  • May: 6:00pm
  • June: 6:30pm
  • July: 6:30pm
  • August: 6:00pm
  • September: 5:00pm
  • October: 4:00pm
  • November: 4:00pm
  • December: 3:00pm
    
• Be flexible: Be prepared to adjust your ceremony time slightly to accommodate the golden hour, especially if you are planning an outdoor wedding. Another perk of getting married close to sunset is that it is cooler in the summer months for your guests, if you are having an outdoor ceremony.
• Communicate with your photographer: Discuss your plans with your photographer to ensure that they are prepared to capture the best possible photos during the golden hour. I am always HAPPY to give advice and guidance when you’re choosing when to get married. I even create a custom photo timeline for your wedding day, no matter what package you choose!

By choosing to time your wedding ceremony around the golden hour, you can ensure that your photos are not only beautiful but also capture the unique and romantic atmosphere of your special day. As a Tennessee wedding photographer, I am passionate about helping couples create stunning memories that will last a lifetime. LET’S GO TAKE DREAM WEDDING PHOTOS!!