TTD- Better in morning or afternoon?

[Elizabeth Medina]

Out of fairness for other times of day, sunset can also be beautiful, its just not usually going to be over the water in the Maya Riviera. (and often there are buildings or clouds that obstruct the view)

 

 

 

 

These two shots from an early moring session are so different but were taken within just a few minutes.

 

 

 

And finally, when the sun is bright and higher in the sky there are still photographs to be made. I prefer to work with the natural available light whenever possible. Rather than setting up lighting I just love to look for the light and (it can be hard or diffused, directional or reflected as the light on Annie's face in the horseback shot, so many variations!) then make it work for the image. I am grateful to live in a location that is blessed by sunshine most of the time! What could be more beautiful!

 

 

 

 

PS. Don't worry about having time for the hair and makeup for trash the dress, as Kate said, the natural look really makes the trash the dress images something special and different from the wedding day images.

[RedDiamond]

I would really agree with Matt that a lot of photographers are scared of mid-day sun and some shouldn't be. I see local photographers who shoot mid-day and the photos don't look great... but it's from lack of knowledge, appropriate equipment, and assistants. Photography students get it drilled into their heads not to shoot mid-day because they aren't prepared for it.

 

Having assistants around can make a huge difference in what you are able to achieve - such as using scrims, light reflectors, and flashes. Couples need to look at the photographers work and decide if the quality is up to par with what they want. If you love someone's work, and it's all well done, you can trust your photographers opinion on the best way to achieve your photos.

 

Even as a photographer I still ask my friends questions about what time they shot certain photos, because it makes a huge difference. The golden hours don't always hold true either. For example there is no point in getting up for the early morning "golden hour' locally, because the mountains shadow the sunrise, so it always runs an hour to an hour and a half late. Sometimes working with a photographer who has experience at your location, or connections to those with experience, can make a big difference.

 

So really it comes down to is the photographer consistently producing great work? If so, they probably know what they are doing.