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Timing & Lighting FAQ:

Sunrise, Midday, and Sunset Sessions

I completely understand the challenges of scheduling around family routines, naps, and vacation plans—and I’m always here to work with you as best as I can! That said, lighting plays a huge role in the quality of your photos, and I want to be upfront about how timing can impact your experience and your final gallery.

 

For Sunrise Sessions:
Once the sun has been up for about an hour or so, it becomes hot, bright, and intense. The lighting becomes stark, the greens turn yellow, and the gentle, soft feel you're likely drawn to in my portfolio can be lost. It can also get uncomfortable—causing squinting, sweating, and distractions that take away from your overall experience.

 

For Midday or Afternoon Sessions:
Any session held between late morning and early afternoon will likely face the same issues—harsh light, heat, and unflattering shadows on faces. Midday lighting is typically the most difficult to work with, especially on bright sunny days without cloud cover.

 

For Sunset Sessions:
Starting your session too early before the sun begins to lower can result in bright, uneven light and longer wait times before the light becomes golden and soft. The best results happen in the final hour before the sun sets.

While I will always do my best to create beautiful images under any conditions, sessions outside of the golden hour (shortly after sunrise or just before sunset) may result in a look that’s different from the soft, dreamy images you see in my portfolio.

 

Timing & Lighting Acknowledgment Agreement

If you choose to schedule your session during these less ideal lighting windows, I’ll kindly ask you to sign the agreement outlined below to confirm your understanding and acknowledgment.

I understand that scheduling a session:

  • More than one hour after sunrise

  • In the late morning, midday, or early afternoon

  • Or more than one hour before sunset

…can significantly affect the lighting and overall outcome of my images. These conditions may result in:

  • Bright, harsh or stark light

  • Washed-out or yellow-toned colors

  • Increased heat and discomfort during the session

  • Unflattering shadows or squinting

  • Lighting that is not soft, dreamy, or consistent with Ashley Valera Photography’s typical style

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