Every family has a story to tell, and there’s no better time to capture that story than during golden hour family photography sessions. As a family photographer I specialise in storytelling through imagery, love golden hour photo shoots to capture great shots with great light!
Why Golden Hour Photography Creates the Most Beautiful Family Photos
Golden hour – that time just after sunrise or before sunset – transforms ordinary family moments beautiful images. The soft, warm light makes everyone look amazing and it’s what I call the happy hour of the day! The time to take a moment at the end of the day and have enjoy the sunshine.In my years photographing families across Ascot & Windsor, Berkshire, I’ve seen how this special lighting helps even the most camera-shy family members relax and be themselves
Morning Golden Hour
Starting approximately one hour after sunrise, morning golden hour offers several advantages for family photography:
- Cooler temperatures – perfect for our unpredictable British weather
- Energetic children – little ones are typically at their best in the morning
- Quieter locations – popular spots like Windsor Great Park are less crowded
- Fresh, dewy backgrounds that add natural beauty to your family story
Evening Golden Hour Sessions
Beginning about one hour before sunset, evening golden hour provides:
- Warmer, more golden tones that create cozy, intimate family portraits
- Perfect timing for families – after work and school, but before bedtime routines
- Sunset possibilities – imagine your family silhouetted against a beautiful Berkshire sunset – I have some great locations!
- Natural wind-down energy that often lead to happy and authentic moments
My Locations for Family Golden Hour Photography
Barosa at The Lookout
A very new location I have found which is in Camberley with easy access and parking.
- The Hilltop – has the perfect spot for golden hour photography
- Woodland & Heathers – natural setting for adventure story telling photography
Private location – away from any crowds
Windsor Great Park
One of my absolute favourite locations for family photography, Windsor Great Park offers:
- The Long Walk – perfect for those walking-away shots that capture your family’s journey together
- Savill Garden – beautiful seasonal backdrops throughout the year
- Open meadows – ideal for children to run and play naturally
- Historic backdrop – Windsor Castle visible in some shots for that quintessentially British feel
Virginia Water
This picturesque lake provides:
- Waterside location – great backdrop to family photos
- Woodland paths – perfect for taking your children on an adventure walk for those storytelling moments
- Open spaces for energetic children to be themselves
- Stunning sunrise and sunset opportunities
Even Your Own Garden
Never underestimate the storytelling potential of your own outdoor space! Some of my most cherished family sessions happen in clients’ gardens, where children are most comfortable and authentic moments naturally unfold.
What to Wear for Your Golden Hour Family Session
Coordinating Colours That Tell Your Story
As someone who believes great photos tell great stories, I always recommend choosing colours that reflect your family’s personality while complementing the golden light:
Perfect palette choices:
- Soft, earthy tones – cream, sage green, dusty blue, warm caramel
- Classic combinations – navy and cream, soft pink and grey
- Seasonal inspiration – rich burgundies and golds for autumn, fresh pastels for spring
What to avoid:
- Bright neon colours that compete with the beautiful natural light
- All-black outfits that can appear too stark in golden hour
- Busy patterns that distract from your family’s faces and expressions
Styling Tips for Authentic Family Photography
- Choose 2-3 coordinating colours rather than exact matches
- Mix textures – flowing dresses, cozy knits, classic denim
- Consider layers for our changeable British weather
- Comfort is key – especially for children who need to move and play naturally
How we are going create those relaxed natural photos:
My approach to family photography focuses on capturing authentic connections rather than stiff, formal poses.:
Storytelling Activities
- Walking adventures through your chosen location
- Piggyback rides and shoulder carries that showcase family playfulness
- Whispering secrets between siblings or parents and children
- Playing simple games like “Red Light, Green Light”
- Quiet cuddles that capture tender family moments
My Storytelling Approach
Every family has a unique story, and I believe great photos tell great stories. During our golden hour sessions, I focus on:
- Genuine emotions rather than forced smiles
- Natural interactions between family members
- Candid moments that happen between poses
- Environmental storytelling that includes your beautiful surroundings
- Timeless images that will be treasured for generations
Planning Your Perfect Family Session
Before Your Golden Hour Shoot
- Discuss the session with children so they know what to expect
- Bring snacks and small toys to keep little ones happy
- Arrive 10 minutes early to settle in before the magic begins
During Your Session
- Trust the process – authentic moments take time to develop
- Let children be children – some of the best shots happen during play
- Embrace imperfection – real families aren’t always perfectly coordinated
- Enjoy the experience – your happiness shows in the final images
Booking Your Golden Hour Family Session
Ready to capture your family’s story in beautiful golden light? I’d love to help you create stunning family photographs.
Contact me today to discuss your family’s golden hour session Telephone: 07976 397638
Book here for upcoming sessions:
https://debbieharephotography.pixieset.com/booking/
Or email me to secure a preferred date: Debbie at Hello@debbieharephotography.co.uk
