Mary Wiebe Photography is a wedding and portrait photographer serving West Texas couples and families

Let’s talk about the golden, glowy, dreamy light that makes everything look like it came straight out of a fairytale. I’m talking about sunset, or what I like to call golden hour. Sunset photography is hands-down one of my favorite things to shoot as a Lubbock photographer! Let me share four of my best tips for capturing stunning sunset photos and how to make the most of golden hour.

But here’s the thing—you don’t get stunning sunset photos just by pointing your camera at the sun and hoping for the best. Whether you’re a fellow photographer, a client preparing for your session, or someone who wants to take better pictures of your kids playing in the backyard at dusk, here are four tips to make the most of golden hour and capture that magical glow.

1. Timing is Everything—Arrive Early, Stay Late to Capture Stunning Sunset Photos

Golden hour is short and sweet, and its timing changes with the seasons. The number one rule is to show up early. I like to start shooting about thirty minutes to an hour before sunset, especially if our location involves walking or setting things up.

The light shifts quickly as the sun gets lower, so the earlier we begin, the more time we have to ease into that dreamy light and capture those magical moments without feeling rushed. I always encourage my clients to stay a little after sunset. The first part of your session is usually warm-up time, and by the end, you are relaxed and the genuine moments start to unfold. Since you are already dressed up and ready, why not spend an extra 15 to 20 minutes creating those images with a soft, moody glow and pastel skies?

2. Position the Light Behind Your Clients

Want that gorgeous glow that makes skin tones buttery and soft and gives hair a halo-like shine? Then you want to have the sun directly behind you.

This works wonders for couple portraits, extended family sessions, and even solo shots. Backlighting creates that golden rim around your hair and shoulders and helps avoid harsh shadows on faces. I like to position myself so the sun is either directly behind or just slightly off to the side, and then I use the soft light to wrap around my clients like a cozy blanket.

If the light feels too harsh, I like to use trees, tall grass, or buildings to diffuse the sun a little. That can soften the effect and keep you from getting blown-out highlights.

3. Use Movement to Capture the Stunning Sunset in Your Photos

Sunset light is already magical, but movement is what makes it even more breathtaking.

Whether it’s twirling in a flowy dress, chasing your significant other through a field, or cuddling close with your little ones while walking hand in hand, movement brings emotion and energy to your photos.

During golden hour, the light adds extra sparkle to movement: hair catches the light mid-spin, shadows dance across the grass, and laughter somehow looks even more joyful. I always encourage my clients to move naturally during sessions. Don’t worry about posing perfectly, just enjoy being in the moment! That’s how you create images that tell your story. Here are some of those dreamy sunset photos I’ve captured.

4. Plan Outfits that Complement the Light

To really bring out the richness of sunset light, choose earthy tones, soft pastels, or warm neutrals. Examples would be: rust, terracotta, cream, dusty rose, sage, and golden yellows. Golden hour is warm, so your outfits should follow suit!

Avoid super bold colors or heavy blacks—they tend to compete with the warm tones and can make editing a little tricky.

Textures photograph beautifully in sunset light! Lace, linen, soft knits—these all catch the light in the most gorgeous ways. As your Lubbock Photographer, I’m always happy to help you with styling ideas that work perfectly with golden hour magic.

Let the Light Tell Your Story

Sunset photography is one of my absolute favorites, not only because it creates breathtaking photos, but because it’s a chance to slow down, soak in the moment, and let the golden light do its thing while you just enjoy your people.

Whether you’re holding hands with your sweetheart, snuggling your newborn, or spinning your kids in the grass, golden hour gives you more than just a glow—it gives you a feeling. And that’s what I’m here to capture.

Ready to Book Your Stunning Sunset Session?

Whether you’re holding hands with your sweetheart, snuggling your newborn, or spinning your kids in the grass, golden hour gives you more than just a glow—it gives you a feeling. And that’s what I’m here to capture.