Why Golden Hour Is the '

Best Time for Wedding Photos

(Especially at the Dallas Arboretum)

As a wedding photographer, one of the most common questions I get is:

“What time should we schedule our photos?”

And while every couple’s timeline is unique, there’s one window of time that consistently delivers stunning results: the golden hour, which is roughly the hour before sunset.

What Is Golden Hour & Why It Matters

Golden hour happens when the sun is low in the sky, typically about an hour before the sun sets. During this time:

  • The light is soft and warm

Harsh midday sun can cause squinting, blown-out highlights, and strong shadows. But golden hour gives you glowy, dreamy light that flatters skin tones and creates a romantic mood.

  • Shadows are gentle

Soft shadows add depth without distraction—ideal for capturing beautiful bridal portraits and couple shots.

  • Backlight becomes magical

The sun behind you or just to the side creates that ethereal backlit glow—perfect for rim light around hair, veils, and floral details.

  • Simply put: golden hour makes every photo feel timeless.

Golden Hour at the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

If you’re planning your wedding at the Dallas Arboretum, you’re in for a visual treat. This venue offers:

  • Lush gardens and floral displays

The Arboretum’s natural beauty is stunning in any light—but during golden hour, the colors become richer and more vibrant.

  • Scenic architectural backdrops

Bridges, fountains, pergolas, and blooming landscapes all come alive with warm, directional light.

  • Intimate moments framed by nature

Couples walking paths, soft petals falling, and glowing greenery make for romantic, cinematic edits.

Whether you’re near the Rose Garden, the Rhododendron Dell, or overlooking White Rock Lake, that golden hour glow makes the Arboretum feel even more magical.

How to Schedule Wedding Day Photos Around Sunset

Here’s a simple approach:

The firs thing I will always recommend is to talk to your photographer!

  • Check sunset time for your wedding date

Sunset times change throughout the year, so plan accordingly.

  • Start golden hour photos about 60 minutes before sunset

This gives us flexibility to move between spots and capture a variety of looks.

  • Build time into your timeline

Leaving buffer time ensures you don’t feel rushed and allows for candid moments and detail shots.

A romantic wedding couple shares a tender kiss at sunset with white curtains flowing in the background.
A wedding couple stands in a golden field at sunset as the bride's veil flows dramatically in the wind.
Romantic wedding couple embraces in a rustic wooden pavilion during golden hour sunset.
A couple embraces in a romantic outdoor photoshoot at sunset in a grassy field with a fallen log.

Tips for Couples

💍 Do a first look before golden hour

This gives you time for portraits afterward while the light is perfect.

🌼 Wear soft, neutral tones

Light colors pop beautifully in warm light without reflecting too much color onto skin.

📍 Scout locations ahead of time

Knowing your favorite spots at the Arboretum means seamless transitions once golden hour begins.

Final Thoughts

Wedding days are filled with unforgettable moments—but lighting can make or break how those moments are captured forever. Scheduling photos during the golden hour, about an hour before sunset, gives you that luminous, romantic light that feels cinematic and timeless.

And when that light meets the stunning gardens of the Dallas Arboretum, the result is truly unforgettable.

Ready to make your wedding photos glow?

Let’s capture your love in the best light.