One of the questions I get asked all the time is: “should we book our family session at sunrise or sunset?” The short answer is both are beautiful, but they offer different experiences, and the best choice depends on what feels right for your family. So, let’s break it down with the pros and cons of each to help you decide!

Sunrise Sessions: Why Early Birds Get the Magic.

Pros:

You often get the whole beach (or location) to yourself: There’s something incredibly peaceful about the world before most people are awake. It’s quiet, it’s still, and it creates a calm, intimate vibe for your session.
Soft, golden light: The light at sunrise is just as magical as sunset - sometimes even softer and more delicate, with dreamy pastel tones that work beautifully in photos.
Kids are usually happiest in the morning: If you have little ones who wake up early and are at their best right after breakfast, a sunrise session can capture them at their most joyful and energetic.
Cooler temperatures in summer: If you’re planning a beach session in the warmer months, the early morning can be much more comfortable (and less sweaty!) than late afternoon.

Cons:

It’s an early start: Depending on the time of year, sunrise can mean a 5:30 or 6:00 am start. You’ll need to get everyone up, dressed, and ready while it’s still dark which isn’t for everyone!
Mornings can feel rushed: If you have work or school to get to, a weekday sunrise session can feel squeezed into an already busy schedule.
If the weather isn’t on our side we have less time to pivot.

Sunset Sessions: Why Golden Hour gets gold!

**Pros:**
That dreamy, golden light: There’s a reason photographers love “golden hour”. The soft, glowing light just before sunset is flattering and beautiful, creating warm, rich tones in your photos.
A relaxed pace: Evening sessions often feel less rushed, especially if they follow a slow afternoon at home or a weekend day without commitments.
A special, end-of-day atmosphere. There’s something magical about closing out the day with a beautiful experience together, especially for families with older kids who love staying up a little later.
**Cons:**
Busier locations. Beaches and parks tend to be busier in the late afternoon, especially in summer or on weekends. While we can work around people, it’s worth knowing you probably won’t have the place to yourself.
Kids might be tired. Depending on your child’s age, the hour before sunset can fall right in the middle of dinner, bedtime routines, or cranky time. We can absolutely navigate this, but it’s something to consider.

So… Which Should You Choose?

There’s no wrong answer! The best choice depends on your family’s rhythms and what feels less stressful and more enjoyable for you. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to chat and help you figure out what fits best — after all, the goal is to make your session fun, relaxed, and full of moments you’ll love looking back on.

Ready to book your sunrise or sunset session? Let’s make it happen! Or if you’re still not 100% which is the right call for you and your family feel free to give me a call, text, DM, email… whatever you’re comfortable with. I’d me more than happy to chat it through.