Picture this: it’s a crisp October evening in Minnesota. The trees are glowing with shades of gold and crimson, the air smells of fallen leaves, and the sun dips low, casting a warm, honey-like light across your family. This is golden hour, and it’s the secret ingredient that makes fall family photos so breathtaking.
While wardrobe, location, and posing all play a role, timing is what ties everything together. Choosing the right moment of day—especially during autumn—creates that dreamy glow you see in professional images.
What Is Golden Hour Exactly?
Golden hour is the short window just after sunrise and just before sunset when the sun is low on the horizon. The light is soft, warm, and directional, creating flattering skin tones and gentle shadows.
Unlike the harsh midday sun that can cause squinting and unflattering contrast, golden hour wraps everything in a glow that feels cinematic. And here in Minnesota, fall’s lower sun angle makes golden hour even richer—the reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees absolutely glow.
Why It’s Ideal for Fall Sessions
Golden hour is the ultimate partner for autumn photography:
Enhances fall color → Warm light makes reds and golds more vibrant.
Comfortable timing → Cooler temps mean kids and pets are more relaxed in the late afternoon.
Soft shadows → No squinting or harsh contrast—just gentle, even light.
Authenticity → Families naturally slow down at sunset, which adds connection to the images.
When Does Golden Hour Happen in Minnesota?
Golden hour shifts quickly as we move through September and October:
Early September → about 6:30–7:30 PM
Mid October → about 5:30–6:15 PM
If you’re aiming for peak color and the best light, late September to mid-October is your sweet spot. I always check the sunrise/sunset charts for the exact date of your session so we hit the light just right.
Pro tip: There are free apps like SunCalc or PhotoPills that let you see golden hour times for any date and location.
Full Sun vs. Cloudy Days
Golden hour is famous for its glow on clear days, but cloudy skies can be just as beautiful. Overcast skies act like a giant softbox, diffusing the light and creating even tones.
One of the biggest myths I hear is that cloudy = bad photos. Not true. In fact, clouds can make fall leaves appear more saturated, giving your session a rich, moody vibe. As a photographer, I adjust my approach to match conditions, so either way, your images will shine.
Why Families Benefit From This Timing
Golden hour isn’t just about the light—it’s about the experience:
Kids are calmer → right before dinner, they’re often more settled.
Skin tones glow naturally → less need for heavy editing.
Evening rhythm → sunset encourages connection, slowing everyone down.
Morning option → for early-rising toddlers or newborn families, sunrise golden hour can be a beautiful alternative.
Real Session Example
Last fall, I photographed the R. family at Como Park just as the sun began to set. The trees glowed fiery red, and as their toddler tossed leaves into the air, the golden light caught each one mid-fall. The gallery wasn’t just beautiful—it felt magical, like a memory frozen in time. That’s what golden hour does.
Planning Tips for Your Golden Hour Session
A little prep goes a long way in making golden hour stress-free:
Arrive 10–15 minutes early → so kids can settle in and explore before we begin.
Have outfits ready → arrive dressed or do quick changes in the car.
Pack a snack → to keep energy up and avoid hangry moments.
Layer up → fall evenings cool quickly once the sun dips.
For wardrobe inspiration, my post on what not to wear for fall photos is a great place to start.
FAQs About Timing
What if we’re late—will we miss the good light?
Golden hour is short, so yes, arriving late can mean losing the glow. That’s why I build in arrival buffers.
Is morning or evening better?
Both work! Evenings give warmth and slower energy, mornings can be magical for early risers.
What if my child naps late?
We’ll work around nap schedules and choose a date/time that supports your family’s rhythm.
Can we still shoot if it’s cloudy?
Absolutely. Cloudy golden hour is softer and sometimes even better than sun.
Final Thoughts
Golden hour is more than just “good light.” It’s the difference between nice photos and unforgettable ones. Timing your session with intention ensures your family is photographed in the most flattering, natural, and meaningful light possible.
And the best part? You don’t have to worry about timing—I’ll handle all of that. All you need to do is show up, be together, and let me take care of the rest.
Ready to experience the glow of golden hour? Explore my family session pricing or contact me here to book your fall session.
