
Alright, lovebirds, gather ‘round! Victoria here, your go-to Hudson Valley wedding photographer capturing love across Hudson Valley, Catskills and beyond. Now, if you’re wondering how to stunning create summer wedding photos because you’re dreaming of a summer wedding, you’ve probably got visions of sun-kissed portraits, golden hour glows, and vibrant backdrops dancing in your heads. And let me tell you, those dreams can absolutely come true! But, much like trying to keep your cool when your future spouse forgets to put the toilet seat down again, summer weddings come with their own unique… quirks.
But fear not, my delightful darlings! As someone who’s wrangled more sunshine than a field of sunflowers and captured more “I do’s” than a justice of the peace, I’m here to spill the tea (or perhaps, a refreshing glass of iced lemonade) on how to create summer wedding photos that are so stunning, they’ll make even your most stoic aunt shed a tear. We’re talking magazine-cover worthy, tear-jerkingly beautiful, “frame every single one” kind of photos.
Beautiful wedding photos don’t happen by accident. They happen by intention.
The golden rule: Lighting is everything—especially in summer.
Harsh midday sun can wash out details and create unflattering shadows.
Enter: Golden Hour—nature’s built-in filter and a photographer’s dream.
Occurs during the hour after sunrise and before sunset.
Soft, diffused, golden light that flatters all skin tones and captures romance like no other.
Why luxury photographers plan their entire shot list around it.
Coordinate with your planner and photographer in advance.
Schedule 15–30 mins for golden hour portraits — even during cocktail hour.
First Look or post-ceremony sunset shots? You can do both with smart planning.
🎯 Pro tip: Use a golden hour calculator for your wedding date + location.
Why seasoned photographers chase golden hour.
Skin looks radiant. Details pop. Emotions feel cinematic.
It elevates everything from florals to dress texture to candid moments.
Pull in a real quote from a photographer:
“Golden hour is when the magic happens—it’s when we create art, not just pictures.”
Share a real story from a past summer wedding:
“As the sun began to dip behind the Catskills, Kelsey and Matt stepped into the pasture. Her dress glowed, his eyes sparkled, and for a moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the world.”
Highlight how it was planned into the day and how the couple felt about the results.
✨ A second outfit, dramatic veil, or statement bouquet
🕶️ Touch-up kit for a dewy glow (not a sweaty shine)
📸 A photographer who specializes in golden light
📍 A venue with west-facing or open-sky views (like Gilbertsville Farmhouse)
“Your love deserves to be captured in its best light—literally. The golden rule isn’t just about timing. It’s about creating moments that feel as beautiful as they look.”
CTA:
🎯 Planning a summer wedding? Let’s design your timeline with golden hour magic in mind. Contact us today and let the light lead the way.
Playing Hide-and-Seek with the Midday Sun (and Winning!)
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But Victoria, my ceremony is at 2 PM! What then?” Ah, my astute little photographic apprentices, this is where we get strategic. The midday sun can be a real bully, casting harsh shadows that make even the most angelic faces look a bit… villainous. But we’ve got tricks up our sleeves!
Beyond the Light: Posing, Play, and Personality
While light is the foundation, your photos are really about you – your love, your joy, and your unique story.
Let’s be real, summer isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, it’s sunshine and… sweat. But don’t let the heat wilt your spirits (or your carefully applied makeup!).
Ultimately, creating stunning summer wedding photos is a collaborative effort. Choose a photographer whose style you adore and, just as importantly, whose personality gels with yours. They’re your guide through the photographic landscape of your wedding day.
And finally, my dear couples, remember this: while beautiful photos are the goal, the real magic lies in the experience of your wedding day. Be present, soak in every moment, laugh until your cheeks hurt, and don’t be afraid to let your personalities shine. Because when you’re truly enjoying yourselves, that joy will radiate from every single frame, creating photos that aren’t just stunning, but deeply, beautifully yours.
So go forth, explore how to create stunning summer wedding photos, plan that gorgeous summer wedding, and get ready to capture memories that will make your heart sing for decades to come!