Planning your timeline for the best golden hour film will make your video look magical. This special time occurs right before the sun sets in the evening. The light becomes very soft and glows with a warm orange colour. We always suggest that couples step away from their dinner for twenty minutes. This short break allows us to capture the most romantic footage of the day.
The sun moves fast, so we must be ready to move quickly. We check the weather and the exact sunset time for your specific date. This ensures we do not miss the window of perfect lighting. Most photographers and videographers agree that this is the best time for portraits. We want to give you a film that looks like it belongs on the big screen. To see examples of this lighting, check our Best Wedding Videographer portfolio.
Coordinating with Your Caterer
Talk to your venue manager about when the main course will be served. You do not want to be outside when your hot food arrives. We help you find a gap in the schedule between speeches or courses. This ensures your guests stay entertained while we work together. A well-planned timeline prevents any stress during the sunset.
Most caterers are happy to work around the sunset if they know in advance. We communicate with your wedding planner to keep everything on track. This teamwork makes the day go smoothly for everyone involved. You will appreciate the calm pace of a professional schedule. We make sure you get back to your party quickly.
Finding the Perfect Outdoor Spot
Not every venue has a clear view of the sunset on the horizon. We arrive early to scout the best locations near your reception hall. Sometimes a simple parking lot or a park nearby works perfectly. The goal is to find a place where the sun peeks through the trees. This creates a beautiful “flare” effect in your wedding film.
We look for spots that offer a bit of privacy for the two of you. This allows you to relax and be yourselves away from the crowd. These quiet moments often result in the best footage of the whole day. We record you walking, talking, and simply enjoying being married. The golden light makes every movement look more graceful.
Using the Light for Emotional Impact
Golden light adds a layer of emotion to the visual story of your day. It creates a dreamlike quality that fits the theme of a wedding perfectly. We use this time to capture the “slow motion” clips for your highlight reel. The warmth of the sun matches the warmth of your love. Our editors love working with this footage because it is so naturally beautiful.
If the sky is cloudy, we still use the soft blue light of dusk. This “blue hour” has its own romantic and moody feeling. We are prepared for any weather situation that might happen in Toronto. Our team knows how to adjust our settings to match the sky. You will always have a film that reflects the true vibe of your day.
Tips for a Stress Free Session
The key to a great sunset session is keeping things simple and fun. Do not worry about looking at the camera or posing perfectly. We want you to focus on each other while we circle around you. Bring a pair of comfortable shoes if we need to walk on grass. This keeps your energy high so you look happy in the film.
We keep our equipment light so we can move fast between spots. This allows us to get several different angles in a short amount of time. You will be surprised at how much we can capture in just fifteen minutes. We respect your time and want you to get back to dancing. Your happiness is our main priority during the shoot.
Finishing the Evening Strong
After the sun goes down, we head back inside for the party. The transition from golden light to the bright lights of the dance floor is exciting. We use these different styles to create a dynamic and interesting film. Your video will have a great rhythm that keeps viewers engaged. We love showing the full range of your wedding day.
If you have more questions, please Contact Us. We can look at your specific venue and help you build a custom timeline. Our team has filmed at many locations across the city and knows the best spots. We want to help you get the best possible results for your film. Let us help you plan the perfect day.
FAQ
What if it rains during the golden hour?
We can use indoor lighting to create a warm and cozy feeling. Rainy weddings often look very cinematic and unique on film. We always have a backup plan for bad weather.
How much time do we really need for sunset?
We usually only need fifteen to twenty minutes of your time. This is enough to get a variety of beautiful shots. We make sure you do not miss your own party.
Is the golden hour different in the winter?
Yes, the sun sets much earlier and the light is a bit cooler. We adjust our schedule to match the season of your wedding. Winter sunsets can be very crisp and clear.