Golden Hour or Candlelight? Finding the Perfect Lighting for Your Wedding Photos

Lighting can make or break your wedding photos. It shapes the mood, defines the colors, and transforms moments into magic. But with so many lighting possibilities — from glowing sunsets to romantic candlelight — how do you know which one fits your day best?

We sat down with Alex, one of our lead photographers at Precious Pics, who has spent over 15 years photographing weddings across the USA. From California vineyards to New York rooftops, Alex has seen it all — and knows exactly how to use light to tell a love story.

Here’s our conversation about how couples can find their perfect lighting.

💬 Q: Everyone hears about “golden hour” photos — what makes that light so special?

Alex: Golden hour is every photographer’s dream. It’s that magical window of time — about an hour after sunrise or before sunset — when the sun sits low on the horizon. The light is warm, soft, and wraps everything in this romantic glow.

It’s flattering on skin tones, adds depth to colors, and gives a natural cinematic feel without harsh shadows. If your schedule allows, plan your couple portraits during golden hour. Even just 15 minutes of that light can make a huge difference.

We’ve shot weddings all over the USA — from deserts in Arizona to beaches in Florida — and no matter the setting, golden hour always delivers that timeless, emotional look couples love.

💬 Q: What if a couple’s ceremony or reception takes place after sunset? Is candlelight or artificial lighting just as good?

Alex: Absolutely. Evening weddings can be stunning. Candlelight, fairy lights, and warm indoor lighting create intimacy and atmosphere — especially for couples who want a more elegant, moody aesthetic.

The trick is balance. Candlelight alone isn’t bright enough for clear photos, so we often blend ambient light with hidden soft lighting or strategically placed LEDs to keep the scene natural but visible.

Think of it this way — golden hour is like a romantic movie at sunset, while candlelight weddings feel like a classic black-and-white film. Both can be breathtaking, just in different ways.

💬 Q: How does lighting change depending on the venue?

Alex: It changes everything. The same lighting can look completely different depending on where you are.

• Outdoor venues (like gardens or vineyards) look best with natural light — especially early evening when the sun is low.

• Indoor venues (like ballrooms or churches) often need a mix of artificial and natural lighting for balance.

• Urban venues (like rooftop or city weddings) look amazing at twilight, when building lights start to glow but there’s still color in the sky.

That’s why we always scout each location in advance — to see how the light moves through the space and plan shots accordingly.

💬 Q: What about unpredictable weather? How do you handle lighting on cloudy or rainy days?

Alex: Cloudy light is actually one of our favorites! Overcast skies create soft, even light that’s perfect for documentary-style wedding photography. No harsh shadows, no squinting — just pure emotion.

For rain? We bring it into the story. Reflections, umbrellas, street lights — they all become part of the mood. Some of the most romantic photos we’ve taken were during rainstorms. It’s all about adapting to what nature gives you and using it creatively.

💬 Q: How do couples choose between natural and artificial light for their wedding style?

Alex: Start with how you want your wedding to feel.

If you love bright, airy, and natural imagery — go for daylight and outdoor spaces.If you prefer moody, elegant, and dramatic vibes — embrace evening light, candles, and soft glows.

There’s no wrong choice. We often blend both — natural light for the ceremony, then warm ambient light for the reception. The goal is to make every image feel authentic to the couple’s personality.

💬 Q: How much of a difference does professional lighting equipment make?

Alex: A huge one — especially for indoor or nighttime weddings. We bring portable flashes, diffusers, and light reflectors to mimic natural light when needed.

The idea is never to make lighting look “fake,” but to enhance what’s already there. Guests won’t even notice the extra lighting — but your photos will feel balanced and vibrant.

It’s one of the reasons professional photographers are worth the investment. Lighting is half science, half art — and knowing how to manage it under pressure is what keeps your photos flawless.

💬 Q: Any advice for couples who want to make sure their lighting looks perfect in photos?

Alex: Yes — a few easy tips:

1. Talk to your photographer early. Lighting choices affect your schedule, venue setup, and even décor.

2. Plan your timeline around light. Don’t underestimate the power of timing — late afternoon light changes quickly!

3. Do a quick lighting walkthrough. If possible, visit your venue at the same time of day your ceremony will take place.

4. Trust your photographer’s eye. We’re trained to see light in ways most people don’t — and we’ll guide you toward the best options for your story.

💬 Q: Last question — golden hour or candlelight, if you had to choose?

Alex (laughing): That’s like asking a chef to pick between chocolate and wine!

If I had to choose — I’d say golden hour for portraits and candlelight for romance. The combination of both gives you a wedding album that feels balanced — airy, elegant, and emotional.

But ultimately, the best light is the one that fits your love story.

✨ Lighting is more than just a technical detail — it’s the soul of your wedding photography. The right light can turn a beautiful moment into an unforgettable image.

At Precious Pics, we’ve captured every kind of lighting imaginable — from beach sunsets to candlelit ballrooms — and we know how to bring out the magic in each. Whether your wedding glows with golden rays or sparkles under the stars, we’ll make sure your love shines through every frame.

👉 Ready to plan your perfect lighting with a pro? Book your consultation today.