Best Time to Take Wedding Photos: A Guide to Seasons for Wedding Photography in Los Angeles
The Best Time of Year for Wedding Photography in LA: A Photographer's Guide 2026
When is the best time of year for wedding photography in LA? The answer depends on several factors, including the season, your chosen location, and specific event details. Los Angeles is a world-famous city for weddings, attracting couples from around the globe with its iconic venues and vibrant atmosphere. This guide is for engaged couples and wedding planners in Los Angeles looking to capture the best wedding photos. Choosing the right time ensures your photos are beautifully lit and stress-free. This guide explores how each season affects wedding photos in LA, offering insights into weather, lighting, and seasonal charm to help you choose the perfect time for stunning images.
When choosing the right season, it’s important to plan ahead and work closely with your wedding planner to schedule photography sessions during the best light, such as golden hour, to ensure your photos look their best. Engagement photos, especially those taken during golden hour, serve as a great practice session and help couples get comfortable in front of the camera, ultimately leading to better wedding photo outcomes. Selecting the best time of day for your wedding photos is essential, as optimal lighting conditions—especially during golden hour—can dramatically enhance the outcome of your images. Good wedding photos are the result of thoughtful timing and the use of natural light, which together create memorable and beautiful images that couples will cherish. The idea of selecting when to get married is not just about logistics—it marks the beginning of your shared journey as a couple, making the date especially meaningful. Ceremony time is a crucial factor in scheduling photography sessions, as it determines when portraits can be taken and helps coordinate with the overall wedding day timeline for optimal lighting conditions.
Good light is key to creating beautiful, timeless wedding photos, and planning your timeline around the best natural light will elevate the final result. Planning for golden hour photos requires checking sunset times and adjusting the timeline accordingly to capture the most flattering light. Keep in mind that the location of your wedding—such as being in a valley or forest—can affect the quality of golden hour light, so it’s important to consider how your venue’s surroundings may impact your photos. Wedding photography coverage typically lasts 8, 9, or 10 hours depending on several factors, so wedding couples should consider this when planning their timeline to make the most of the best lighting opportunities. Wedding planning in Los Angeles is also influenced by the peak season, which begins in May, leading to increased costs and competition for popular dates.
Key Takeaways
Los Angeles offers ideal wedding photography opportunities year-round, with peak seasons from late spring to early fall, particularly popular in:
April
May
June
September
October
Lighting plays a crucial role in wedding photography; scheduling ceremonies during optimal hours, such as golden hour, ensures great light for golden hour photos and enhances overall photo quality.
Choosing the right venue, whether indoor or outdoor, significantly impacts the aesthetic of wedding photos; iconic LA locations provide unique backdrops that elevate the overall photography experience.
Be sure to dedicate time early in the day to capture other details such as rings, dress, shoes, bouquets, and accessories—these small elements are essential for telling a complete wedding story.
Locations with white walls can help reflect light and enhance the quality of wedding photos, making them a great choice for preparation or portrait spaces.
Los Angeles is blessed with sunny weather year-round, making it an ideal location for wedding photography at any time. However, choosing the right season can significantly enhance your wedding photos and overall experience. While there is no bad time to plan a wedding in Los Angeles, understanding the nuances of each season can help you pinpoint the perfect time for your big day.
The peak wedding season in LA spans from late spring to early fall, with particularly popular months being:
April
May
June
September
October
Each season brings its own unique charm and considerations, from the blooming flowers of spring to the long, golden days of summer, the warm tones of fall, and the cozy, intimate settings of winter, making it easy to choose a favorite season in life.
Summer (June to August)
Weather and Lighting
Summer months in LA, especially June through August, are known for their vibrant energy and long days, providing ample time to capture stunning photos. Warm weather is a hallmark of summer weddings, making these months ideal for an outdoor ceremony. On a sunny day, the beautiful lighting can enhance your images, but it can also create challenges with glare that may affect photo quality. When the sun is directly overhead, it creates harsh lighting and strong shadows—many professional photographers try to avoid shooting at this time for this reason. June and July, in particular, are often romanticized for weddings, adding to their popularity. On the other hand, overcast days or a grey day can actually provide soft, diffused light that is ideal for wedding photography, even during midday.
Venue and Vendor Availability
Beach weddings are especially popular in Los Angeles during the summer months, with venues like Malibu and Santa Monica offering picturesque seaside ceremonies and a laid-back yet elegant atmosphere. Beachfront locations tend to remain relatively cool compared to inland areas, where temperatures can reach the 90s and impact guest comfort. For outdoor ceremonies, it's important to consider guest comfort by providing shade or hydration options to ensure everyone enjoys the celebration.
Summer weddings in Los Angeles can be hosted at a variety of venues, including beaches, gardens, and backyards, allowing for flexibility in style and ambiance. Popular summer wedding themes include boho chic and tropical styles, which complement the season's lively vibe. Summer menus often feature fresh, easy-to-eat options like seafood and salads, and many wedding dresses are designed to be lighter and more comfortable for the warm weather.
Due to high demand during the summer months, it's crucial to book your vendors early, as availability and prices can impact your budget.
Photography Tips
However, it's important to consider the potential challenges of high glare and heat, which can affect both comfort and photo quality. Scheduling your wedding photos during the hour before sunset can help you avoid harsh light and capture the best moments with soft, flattering lighting.
Despite these challenges, 28% of weddings in LA were held during summer last year, reflecting its enduring appeal.
Fall (September to November)
Weather and Lighting
Fall weddings in Los Angeles are beloved for their warm tones and mild weather. Fall weddings in Southern California typically enjoy temperatures in the 70s and 80s, making it a comfortable season for outdoor events and guest comfort. October and November have lower humidity and almost no rain, making them some of the best months for an outdoor ceremony. Fall provides warm, dry air and golden light, with ideal conditions for outdoor ceremonies.
Venue and Vendor Availability
Extreme competition for venues and vendors occurs in October, making it one of the most popular seasons. October is the most popular wedding month in Los Angeles, accounting for 17% of weddings, while September is the second most popular with 15%.
Photography Tips
Fall evenings often provide a warm glow and golden light, with warmer light that is soft, diffuse, and especially flattering for wedding photography, enhancing the dreamy and romantic atmosphere of your photos. The season’s cozy charm and slightly cooler temperatures make it a popular time for many couples to tie the knot, especially for the hot cold bride. I love helping couples on warm nights.
Winter (December to February)
Weather and Lighting
Winter weddings in Los Angeles offer a unique charm, from festive holiday settings to moody atmospheres created by earlier sunsets. Winter in Los Angeles may be the most affordable season for weddings, with lower venue rates and flexible vendor availability, which can help with your budget. Winter weddings in Southern California also offer cool weather, with mild 60-degree days and crisp evenings.
Venue and Vendor Availability
Winter is considered the off-season for weddings, with only 9% of weddings taking place between December and February, and January and February are the least popular months. January and February also have the highest likelihood of rain, making them the rainiest season for weddings. Winter weddings can feature stunning Christmas decorations and holiday lights, creating a festive and romantic atmosphere for your celebration. Luckily, the off-season means you can enjoy more intimate settings and better vendor availability. Taking a rest from the popular spring and fall wedding seasons allows couples to explore unique options and venues that might otherwise be booked.
Photography Tips
No matter the season, the right venue and decor can create a beautiful and memorable wedding experience, even in winter. When planning a winter wedding, be sure to consider holidays, as they can affect guest availability and travel plans.
On a cloudy day in winter, the soft, diffused light can be especially flattering for portraits, while the blue hour after sunset provides a unique opportunity for dramatic, cool-toned wedding photos. The blue hour occurs just after sunset and offers deep blue and purple hues for moody, cinematic shots. As the off-season for weddings, winter provides more intimate settings and fewer crowds, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a more personal celebration.
Additionally, marrying in January can often lead to lower costs and better vendor availability.
Timing Your Wedding Day for Perfect Photos
The timing of your wedding day plays a crucial role in capturing the best photos. When planning your photography schedule, consider the entire day to ensure all key moments are beautifully documented. Lighting is a critical factor, and the quality of light varies with the seasons, affecting the overall outcome of your wedding photos. Choosing a wedding date that aligns with optimal lighting conditions ensures stunning, natural-light photos. Most weddings run slightly behind schedule, so it's important to plan for flexibility in the timeline.
It is important to include the bride and groom in key moments such as golden hour portraits and formal photos, as these are often the most romantic and visually striking images of the day. Scheduling couples photos and couples portraits during optimal lighting, especially around golden hour, helps capture natural and memorable images. Coordinating the timeline to ensure both the bride and groom are present for these sessions is essential. The groom should also be considered in the timeline for portraits, both during preparations and in couple’s photos, to capture his attire and emotions before and after the ceremony.
Be sure to allocate specific time slots for family photos and family sessions, ideally during late afternoon or sunset, to preserve meaningful memories with immediate and extended relatives in the best light. Schedule dedicated time for wedding party photos to capture group shots with bridesmaids and groomsmen. Additionally, capturing additional images of immediate family members beyond standard formal photos ensures a richer and more comprehensive collection of family moments.
First Look Considerations
Other factors to consider include the time of day for your ceremony and photo sessions. The timing of the wedding ceremony is especially crucial for ensuring the best lighting for photos. If you are having everything occur at one location and do not want to do a First Look, you need to ensure your ceremony time is early. Most photographers recommend doing a First Look to allow couples to relax and enjoy their day more. If your ceremony is scheduled late in the day, you may end up taking portraits in the dark if you do not do a First Look. Planning your timeline with your wedding photographer around the best lighting conditions enhances the quality and mood of your photos.
Family portraits are easiest to take immediately following the ceremony because everyone is already present. It is important to notify family members who need to stay for family portraits ahead of time to ensure organization.
Let's explore the best time of day to schedule your wedding event for perfect photos.
Golden Hour Magic
Other factors to consider include the time of day for your ceremony and photo sessions. The timing of the wedding ceremony is especially crucial for ensuring the best lighting for photos. If you are having everything occur at one location and do not want to do a First Look, you need to ensure your ceremony time is early. Most photographers recommend doing a First Look to allow couples to relax and enjoy their day more. If your ceremony is scheduled late in the day, you may end up taking portraits in the dark if you do not do a First Look. Planning your timeline with your wedding photographer around the best lighting conditions enhances the quality and mood of your photos.
Family portraits are easiest to take immediately following the ceremony because everyone is already present. It is important to notify family members who need to stay for family portraits ahead of time to ensure organization.
Let's explore the best time of day to schedule your wedding event for perfect photos.
Golden Hour Magic
Golden hour, the time just before sunset or shortly after sunrise, is renowned for its beautiful light and warmer light, which enhance wedding photos with a soft, romantic glow. This period is defined by indirect light—sunlight that is diffused and gentle, making it especially flattering for portraits. The low angle of the sun during golden hour softens the high contrast on a subject's face, resulting in more even and pleasing skin tones. Golden hour produces great images that stand out in wedding galleries for their dreamy, editorial quality. Planning for golden hour photos requires knowing the sunset time for your wedding day to ensure you capture this fleeting, ideal light. In 2026, the ideal time for wedding photography centers on golden hour, roughly 30 to 60 minutes before sunset. The best time for wedding photos is typically 30 to 45 minutes before sunset to capture the best lighting. Golden Hour is the hour before sunset or after sunrise, when the sun is low on the horizon and the light is soft and warm. Golden hour occurs when the Sun is near the horizon, typically one hour before sunset or after sunrise, providing ideal conditions for portraits. Sunrise can also offer beautiful golden hour light, though it can be more unpredictable than sunset. Golden hour portraits are especially popular for their romantic and timeless look, as the light is warm and the setting sun creates a soft, golden glow. Many professional photographers prioritize Golden Hour for capturing romantic and flattering portraits. The low angle of the sun during golden hour helps produce gentle shadows and flattering light, which the sun creates to result in a more pleasing image. Golden Hour typically lasts for a short period, so it’s important to act quickly to capture the best light. The golden hour does not last long, so it is essential to plan ahead to take advantage of this light. Planning portraits or ceremonies around golden hour provides flattering lighting, making golden hour wedding photos a highlight of the day and enhancing the visual appeal of your wedding images. Additionally, planning for potential rain or light changes is important for capturing essential wedding memories, as sometimes clouds roll in and can affect the quality of golden hour light.
Early morning or late afternoon sessions can also take advantage of this optimal natural lighting, resulting in beautifully lit photos.
Avoiding Harsh Midday Sun
Midday sunlight can create unflattering glare and harsh shadows, making it essential to avoid scheduling ceremonies during this time. An indoor venue or later ceremony for a summer wedding in LA helps avoid high temperatures and intense sunlight.
Consider using the first hour after the ceremony or during cocktail hour as a great time for wedding photos, as the light is softer and guests are occupied with drinks and mingling. Some couples also choose to step out for photos during dinner to catch the best light, especially if golden hour overlaps with the dinner service. This ensures a more comfortable experience for your guests and better photo quality.
Sunset Ceremonies
Sunset ceremonies offer dramatic lighting that can enhance the quality of your wedding photos. Sunset photos taken during magic hour capture the dramatic colors of the sky and create unforgettable images. The vibrant colors and soft lighting at sunset create a picturesque backdrop, perfect for capturing memorable moments. This romantic and visually appealing setting is becoming increasingly popular among couples looking to create unforgettable wedding memories.
Choosing the Right Venue for Stunning Photos
Selecting the right wedding venue is crucial for achieving stunning wedding photos. For couples dreaming of a romantic and scenic celebration, a beach wedding in Los Angeles offers breathtaking ocean backdrops and a unique, laid-back elegance that is perfect for seaside ceremonies and photos. The venue's aesthetic, lighting, and overall ambiance can significantly impact the quality of your photography, and the choice of backdrop truly matters for creating timeless images you'll cherish forever. Don't be afraid to get creative with your venue selection and decor—incorporating personal touches and unique ideas will make your wedding day truly reflect your personalities. If you're considering an outdoor ceremony, make sure your venue can support this option comfortably, taking into account weather, shade, and guest experience. The choice of venue can influence the mood and composition of each photograph, helping you achieve the perfect shot that captures the emotion and beauty of your special day. Whether you opt for an outdoor or indoor venue, it's essential to consider how the location will enhance your wedding photos.
Outdoor Venues
Outdoor wedding venues in LA offer picturesque settings that enhance the natural beauty of your photos. Some excellent choices include:
These venues provide stunning vistas and lush landscapes that create memorable wedding images. They are known for producing amazing photos thanks to their natural beauty.
Outdoor venues with ample natural light and scenic backdrops are ideal for wedding photography.
Indoor Venues with Great Lighting
Indoor venues with excellent lighting, such as the Fig HouseThe Loft on Pine, are perfect for wedding photography. These venues are designed to maximize natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that enhances the quality of your photos.
Other venues like Vibiana and the SmogShoppe are known for their outstanding lighting, making them ideal for capturing beautiful wedding images.
Iconic LA Locations
Iconic locations in Los Angeles, such as Griffith Park and Santa Monica Pier, provide stunning and recognizable backdrops for wedding photos. The vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier and the breathtaking views from Griffith Park Observatory add a unique charm to your wedding photography.
Locations like the Hollywood Sign and the Getty Center also offer iconic settings that make your wedding photos stand out.
Seasonal Vibes and Themes for Your Wedding Photos
Incorporating seasonal themes and vibes into your wedding photos can unify the overall aesthetic and create a memorable experience. Each season offers unique elements that can enhance the visual appeal of your wedding images. Be creative with your seasonal wedding themes—think outside the box to design a celebration that truly reflects your personality and originality. Embracing the idea of each season's unique qualities can inspire your wedding photography and help you conceptualize a look that feels authentic to you. From vibrant summer colors to cozy fall tones, and festive winter decorations, the right seasonal theme can make your wedding photos truly special. June, in particular, is known for its lovely weather, making it an ideal month for outdoor weddings. Don't be afraid to take a rest from traditional peak seasons and consider less popular times for a unique and intimate celebration. Each season can also bring an element of surprise, such as unexpected natural scenery or charming weather patterns, adding magic and spontaneity to your wedding day.
Let's explore how to capture the essence of each season in your wedding photography, ensuring that your photos reflect the beauty and charm of the time of year you choose for your celebration and help create timeless memories.
Spring Romance
Spring weddings are known for their soft and romantic aesthetics, enhanced by blooming flowers and pastel colors. Late March or April are the best months for achieving a romantic feel with fresh blooms, creating a dreamy and picturesque backdrop for your wedding photos.
Summer Brightness
Summer weddings radiate vibrant energy and lively visuals, making them ideal for bright and colorful photography. Incorporating brightly colored flowers and airy fabrics into your wedding arrangements can significantly enhance the vibrancy of your photos, reflecting the lively atmosphere of the season.
Fall Warmth
Fall weddings are characterized by warm earth tones and cozy atmospheres. Incorporating natural elements like pumpkins and leaves into your decor can create a cozy fall setting, perfect for capturing the season's charm in your wedding photos.
The use of rustic decorations and warm hues further enhances the inviting atmosphere of autumn weddings.
Winter Elegance
Winter weddings exude elegance and sophistication with festive decorations and winter florals. Incorporating these elements into your wedding decor can add a touch of elegance to your photos, capturing the charm of the season.
The combination of festive decor and sophisticated attire creates a dramatic and stylish look for your winter wedding photos.
Working with Your Wedding Photographer
Collaborating effectively with your wedding photographer can make a significant difference in the style and quality of your wedding photos. During wedding planning, it’s important to coordinate not only with your photographer but also with other vendors to ensure a smooth timeline and seamless experience on your big day. Hiring a professional photographer is invaluable, as experienced wedding photographers are skilled at capturing special moments throughout the day, ensuring that every meaningful highlight is preserved. Having a second shooter is especially valuable for capturing candid and detailed shots from different angles during key moments like the ceremony, preparation, and reception. The first hour of your reception will typically include introductions, first dances, and toasts, with the dance floor serving as a focal point for these memorable moments. The first dance, in particular, is a special, often practiced moment that allows the couple to share a meaningful experience and create memorable photos, marking the start of the dance floor festivities. If you want to capture special moments during your reception, consider 9 or 10 hours of photography coverage. Planning for a sparkler exit as a special send-off at the end of the reception can also be incorporated into your photography timeline. The timing and technique during each shoot are crucial for achieving optimal results, especially during golden hour or challenging lighting conditions. Always have a backup plan for rain, especially during summer and spring weddings, to ensure your photography experience remains smooth regardless of the weather. Engaging in open dialogue about your expectations and preferences helps ensure that your vision is captured perfectly. Establishing a good rapport with your photographer fosters a comfortable environment, allowing them to capture genuine moments and emotions.
Based in Los Angeles, companies like Arrakis Films offer tailored photo and videopackages that cater to various wedding styles, from intimate elopements to full-day luxury coverage. Their experience in blending editorial artistry with genuine emotion ensures your married in los angeles memories are preserved beautifully.
Here are some tips on how to work effectively with your wedding photographer.
Early Consultation
Consulting early with your wedding photographer aligns your vision with their expertise. Discussing your preferences early on helps the photographer understand your desired photo style and plan accordingly.
This coordination allows for optimal scheduling of key photo sessions around the best lighting conditions, ensuring your wedding photos turn out beautifully.
Scheduling Photo Sessions
Achieving stunning wedding photos involves the following steps:
Schedule photo sessions during optimal lighting hours. While golden hour photos are beautiful, remember they are not the most important thing—enjoying your wedding day and capturing key moments should always be the priority. Photographers recommend planning the wedding day timeline backward from sunset to ensure key moments happen in the best light.
Consider scheduling engagement photos during golden hour to get comfortable in front of the camera and practice for the wedding day. Engagement photos at sunset provide soft, romantic, and scenic images, making them an ideal time for outdoor or natural light photography. This practice session helps you and your partner feel at ease and enhances the outcome of your wedding photos.
Have initial meetings with your photographer to establish a connection and ensure their style aligns with your wedding vision. If this is your first wedding, trusting professionals to guide you through optimal photo timing and logistics can help ensure memorable images.
Discuss your preferences early so your photographer can tailor their approach to capture the best moments of your wedding day.
Trusting Their Expertise
Relying on your photographer's expertise ensures they capture the best moments and angles effectively. Early consultation helps the photographer understand your style, ensuring they capture your day according to your wishes.
By relying on their skills and experience, you can relax and enjoy your wedding, confident that your photos will be beautiful.
Considering Local Events and Peak Tourist Season
Organizing your wedding around local events, holidays, and peak tourist seasons ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. Holidays like Independence Day or Memorial Day can affect guest travel plans and venue availability, so it's important to consider these dates when planning your wedding. Major local events can lead to crowded venues and interruptions, affecting your overall wedding photography experience. Understanding the busiest months for weddings in Southern California, such as:
April
May
September
October
can help you avoid scheduling conflicts. Orange County and San Diego are also popular Southern California locations with similar seasonal considerations, so be sure to research local calendars in these areas as well. If your wedding falls during a holiday or peak season, it's crucial to book your vendors early to secure your preferred choices and manage costs effectively.
Opting for an early spring wedding can be advantageous, as it is considered off-season for tourists, allowing for more tranquil venue selections. Incorporating seasonal themes into your wedding can also elevate your photography by providing a cohesive aesthetic that highlights the beauty of each time of year.
Avoiding Major Events
Scheduling your wedding during less popular months like January, February, and December can help you avoid major disruptions and crowded venues. March and September are among the most popular months for weddings, so planning around these times can ensure a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.
Venues like Ole Hanson Beach Club and Calamigos Ranch can be particularly busy during summer and holiday periods, which can disrupt your wedding photography.
Off-Peak Advantages
Opting for an off-peak season wedding reduces crowds and improves vendor availability, enhancing your experience. Winter weddings in Los Angeles often come with more hotel and flight deals for guests, making it more affordable for attendees.
Overall, selecting an off-peak date for your wedding can lead you to decide on a smoother planning process and a more enjoyable celebration for both you and your guests.
Summary
Choosing the right time of year for your wedding in Los Angeles can greatly impact the quality and beauty of your wedding photos. Deciding on the best season to get married in Los Angeles is not just about the weather—it's about marking the beginning of your new journey together as a couple. From the vibrant energy of summer to the cozy charm of fall, each season offers unique advantages. By considering the optimal times of day, selecting the right venue, incorporating seasonal themes, and working closely with your wedding photographer, you can ensure that your wedding day is captured perfectly. Remember, the key to stunning wedding photos lies in thoughtful planning and collaboration. Here's to creating beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!
Stay tuned for our next blog post with more wedding photography tips and advice!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year for wedding photography in Los Angeles?
The ideal time for wedding photography in Los Angeles is from late spring to early fall, particularly in:
April
May
June
September
October
These months offer beautiful weather and vibrant settings for stunning photos.
What time of day is best for wedding photos?
The best time for wedding photos is during the golden hour, just before sunset, as it provides soft, warm lighting that enhances the images. Early morning or late afternoon sessions are also excellent for capturing beautiful natural light.
How can I avoid harsh midday sun during my wedding?
To effectively avoid harsh midday sun during your wedding, schedule your ceremony and photo sessions for the late afternoon or early evening. Additionally, consider using indoor venues or shaded areas if you need to hold events during the day.
What are some popular wedding venues in Los Angeles for photography?
For stunning wedding photography in Los Angeles, consider venues like:
Calabasas Country Club
Franciscan Gardens
These venues offer beautiful outdoor and indoor settings with excellent natural lighting.
How can I work effectively with my wedding photographer?
To work effectively with your wedding photographer, have an early consultation to align your vision and schedule sessions around optimal lighting. Trust their expertise for the best results on your special day.
