A couple stands between two vintage teal blue chairs in an outdoor field during sunset.
1. Golden Hour: The Magic of Soft, Warm Light

If you're looking for dreamy, soft, and flattering lighting, then the golden hour is your best bet. The golden hour refers to the time just after sunrise and just before sunset, when the sun is low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over everything.

  • Why it’s perfect: The light is soft and diffused, which helps minimize harsh shadows and gives everyone in the family a natural, sun-kissed glow. It’s especially great for younger children, as the gentle lighting is flattering for all skin tones and minimizes squinting.
  • Best time: Golden hour occurs during the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. These times vary throughout the year, so it’s important to check the sunrise and sunset times for your location. In the summer, golden hour is typically around 7-8 PM, while in the winter, it might be as early as 4-5 PM.
  • Pro tip: Arrive a bit early so you can scout the location and get settled in before the perfect lighting window closes. The light changes quickly during golden hour, so timing is key!


A group of people in coordinated casual outfits pose together on a gray couch placed outdoors in a rustic field setting.
2. Overcast Days: Soft and Even Lighting

If you’re worried about bright sun or harsh shadows, cloudy days can actually be some of the best times for family portraits. The cloud cover acts as a natural diffuser, softening the sunlight and creating even lighting for your entire family.

  • Why it’s perfect: Overcast skies give off soft, even light that flatters everyone and eliminates the need for adjusting exposure or dealing with squinting. This can be especially helpful for younger children who might not be able to handle the glare of the sun. Additionally, overcast days offer a more neutral and understated vibe, allowing your family to stand out more in the photos.
  • Best time: Overcast lighting is available throughout the day, which gives you more flexibility with scheduling. Whether it’s midday or late afternoon, the light will be more forgiving and balanced.
  • Pro tip: If you want a more dramatic or moody look for your family portraits, overcast skies can provide that effect. The clouds add a layer of depth and texture to your photos, creating a more artistic feel.


Three generations enjoy a walk together on grassy path by the water wearing matching burgundy colored tops.
3. Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon: Perfect for Energized Families

While midday light is often considered too harsh for traditional portraits, it can still be a great time for family photos, especially if you have active kids or a family full of energy. The light will be brighter and more direct, but it can create crisp, vibrant photos.

  • Why it’s perfect: If you’re aiming for bright, vibrant family portraits with lots of contrast, midday sun can work well. It’s also a good time if you’re shooting indoors with natural light, as the sun will be higher in the sky and pouring through windows. If your kids are energetic and you want to capture them running around or interacting playfully, midday might be your time to shine!
  • Best time: The window between 10 AM and 2 PM can still work well, especially if you’re shooting in shaded areas or using reflective surfaces like white walls or diffusers.
  • Pro tip: Try shooting in areas with natural shade—such as under trees or near buildings—so that you can avoid harsh shadows or squinting. You can also use reflectors to bounce light onto your family, making the most of the sunlight without it becoming too overpowering.


A group sits together on fallen logs in a serene pine forest setting during a photo session.
4. Twilight and Blue Hour: A Cool and Dreamy Effect

For those looking for a more unique, cool-toned atmosphere, shooting during twilight or the blue hour can create magical family portraits. This is the time just after the sun has set, when the sky turns a rich blue and the natural light is low but still present.

  • Why it’s perfect: Twilight gives off a calm, serene vibe and produces a beautiful, soft light that is perfect for dreamy, artistic family portraits. The colors in the sky can also add a stunning backdrop to your photos.
  • Best time: The blue hour occurs right after the sun sets, and it only lasts for about 20-30 minutes, so you’ll need to be quick! The exact timing will depend on the time of year and your location, but expect it to happen roughly 15-30 minutes after sunset.
  • Pro tip: If you’re shooting outdoors at twilight, you might want to bring some extra lighting (such as a portable flash or light source) to ensure that your family is still well-lit. However, if you're going for a more dramatic or silhouette effect, you can embrace the low light and get creative with shadows.


Three women smiling together wearing cozy sweaters against a white background.
5. Indoor Portraits: Anytime with Good Natural Light

If you're taking family portraits indoors, the time of day can be less important, but lighting still plays a crucial role. Natural light coming through windows can create a beautiful, soft glow, and shooting indoors also means you have more control over your environment.

  • Why it’s perfect: If you have large windows with plenty of natural light, you can take beautiful family portraits anytime during the day. Mid-morning and early afternoon typically work best, as that’s when the light is bright but not too harsh.
  • Best time: Late morning to early afternoon when sunlight is coming through the windows. Try to avoid shooting directly under harsh midday light unless you can diffuse it with curtains or reflectors.
  • Pro tip: Set up your family near a window for the most flattering light, and use sheer curtains to diffuse the sunlight. If you’re using artificial light, make sure it’s soft and not too harsh or direct.


Final Thoughts

The best time for family portraits largely depends on the mood you want to create and the kind of lighting you're looking for. Golden hour is universally loved for its soft, warm light, while overcast days provide even, flattering lighting. Midday sun can be great for vibrant and energetic portraits, and the blue hour offers a dreamy, artistic effect. Whatever time you choose, remember that family portraits are all about capturing the love and connection between you and your loved ones, so don't stress too much about the perfect conditions—focus on having fun and making memories!

Happy shooting, and may your family portraits turn out just as beautiful as your memories!