You’re likely familiar with golden-hour wedding photos: those soft-hued pictures taken shortly after sunrise or before sunset. Typically, due to the time of day, these shots tend to incorporate orange and pink hues. And while they’re a popular choice for many brides and grooms, you may be searching for something a bit more moody and unique for your own nuptials. Rather than embracing the warm tones of the sun, consider taking photos with your partner before sunrise or after sunset, during a time known as “blue hour.”
“Blue hour begins a few minutes after the sun dips below the horizon, when daylight is gone but true night has not yet arrived,” says Meredith Diamond, a wedding photographer. “The sky turns a soft blue, shadows cool, and overall contrast softens.” The end result? Dreamy and romantic photos complemented by the cool hues of the night sky. More couples appear to be gravitating toward this type of photography; it was even noted as an emerging trend on Pinterest’s annual wedding report. “With the rise of editorial-style wedding photography and the controlled, creative use of flash both in daylight as well as in low-light scenarios, couples are seeking a look that feels elevated and cinematic,” adds Vangelis Beltzenitis, a destination wedding photographer.
Looking for soft, ethereal wedding photos? Consider reserving some time during blue hour to snap a few shots with your partner. Read on for everything you need to know about this emerging photography trend.
Photo by Kyndal Elise Photography
Why is Blue-Hour Photography Currently Trending?
Wanting their photos to be less rigid and more editorial, many modern brides and grooms gravitate to blue-hour portraits for their ability to capture their one-of-a-kind dynamic. “In an era where emotive imagery is important, blue hour provides a canvas for storytelling that is visually striking and emotionally engaging,” says Brianna Graca, a wedding photographer. “The unique lighting allows for creative techniques, such as direct flash and motion blur, which can highlight playful poses and candid moments.”
Just like golden hour, this time of day can feel magical. “The deep blue sky provides a gorgeous backdrop that makes subjects pop, while artificial venue lighting or sparklers create beautiful contrast and bokeh effects,” Beltzenitis says. And while you may assume that candlelit photos aren’t feasible without a starry sky, Sasithon Pooviriyakul, a wedding photographer says otherwise, noting that pictures that incorporate such flames look particularly beautiful during these softer moments.
Photo by Liron Erel & Co.
4 Key Benefits of Blue-Hour Photography
Curious about some of the benefits of blue-hour photography? Here, the experts explain how shooting before sunrise—or after sunset—can result in showstopping pictures. Read on for some of the benefits.
It Falls at the Right Time
Finding time to take portraits during your celebration can be stressful. If you want to capture the magic of golden hour, you may need to duck away during your cocktail hour or at the start of your reception. However, if you opt to snap pictures during blue hour, you’ll find that you’ll have a bit more wiggle room. “[Couples] can enjoy stepping out after the main events for a few portraits without missing out on precious moments,” Graca says.
Photo by Brianna Graca
The Lighting Is Flattering
Couples are often drawn to traditional sunset portraits because of the golden glow. Luckily, the lighting conditions during blue hour are similar: “The soft, even lighting is universally flattering, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a natural glow on skin,” Beltzenitis says.
It Has a Natural Cinematic Effect
Searching for a way to give an editorial look to your wedding photos? Blue-hour photos do just that, adding a touch of personality and drama to your portraits. The secret lies in the cool-toned light, which captures pictures in “a timeless, cinematic mood without heavy editing,” Diamond says.
It Gives You a Quiet, Magical Moment
Such a session may also fall at the perfect time. “What I love most [about blue-hour photos] is how these few minutes often land between dinner courses,” says Liron Erel, a wedding photographer. “Not only do we capture those precious images, but it also gives them a chance to be alone, breathe, and just exist together. There’s something profoundly grounding in watching the moon rise with your partner on your wedding day.”
Photo by Sasithon Photography
3 Potential Drawbacks of Blue-Hour Photography
While blue-hour photography is an emerging trend, there are some aspects to be aware of before reserving this time for a portrait session. Below, the experts offer some elements to consider before putting these photos on your must-have shot list.
The Time Frame Is Brief
Blue hour can be fleeting. As a result, you have to strategically plan when—and where—to take these photos. The lighting conditions last anywhere from fifteen to forty minutes, Diamond says, adding that this window can shift based on the season in which you’re tying the knot and the location of your nuptials.
It Can Be Challenging for Photographers
When executed correctly, blue-hour photos will undoubtedly be some of your favorites from your wedding day. However, know that such a session may require a bit more work on the part of your photographer. “For portraits, oftentimes I have to use either a flash or continuous light to properly light the subject,” says Pooviriyakul. As a result, these snaps shouldn’t be a spur-of-the-moment decision. Make sure to discuss your concept with your photographer ahead of your celebration.
It Can Be Affected by Weather
Unfortunately, this type of photography can be impacted by weather. If the skies are overcast, the level of light may be too low to achieve your desired effect. Sometimes, the perfect conditions can align, resulting in a gorgeous session, but it’s not a guarantee. As a result, it’s important to have a backup plan to ensure you can still capture gorgeous portraits, regardless of the elements.
