In my Journal you can find examples of recent work, tips for smaller sessions, your big day, and any current musings.
To quote one of my most memorable professors from Ithaca College, Gossa Tsegaye, “You need to paint with the light!” The word photography itself comes from the Greek words photos (light) and graphe (writing), which together means “drawing with light.” While some of my classmates thought this phrase was a bit eccentric (since the root of the word was not explained to us), I have found it to be the core of great photography. The light and the time of day can make or break the mood and beauty of your photographs.
Whether you are planning a portrait session or documenting your wedding day, understanding how lighting changes throughout the day can help you make the most of your special moments. Here is a breakdown of lighting at different times of the day and how it can affect the mood, feel, and overall aesthetic of your photos.
The light at sunrise is soft, warm, and golden, creating a romantic glow and long, textured shadows. It’s perfect for capturing gentle and flattering portraits with a sense of calm and fresh beginnings.

When the sun is directly overhead, the light is bright and harsh, casting strong shadows. While this time can be challenging for soft portraits, it works well for bold, dramatic shots with vibrant colors.

In the afternoon, the light starts to soften as the sun lowers. Shadows become longer, creating depth and warmth without being as harsh as midday light.

Just like at sunrise, the golden hour at sunset offers warm, golden light with long, dramatic shadows. This time is one of the most sought-after for its flattering portrait light and cinematic quality, perfect for capturing romance and nostalgia.

After the sun dips below the horizon, the sky takes on cool tones of blue and purple. This subtle light is ideal for moody, cinematic portraits or silhouettes.

While natural light is gone at night, artificial light sources like streetlights, candles, or flashes create opportunities for bold and edgy compositions. Night portraits are especially impactful for proposals, events, or branding sessions.

Cloudy skies create soft, diffused light that eliminates harsh shadows. This lighting is flattering and versatile, making it perfect for portraits at any location.
New York State’s changing seasons offer unique lighting conditions that add to the character of your photos. That being said, they do not make nearly as much of a difference as the time of the day:
Every time of day and season brings unique opportunities to craft stunning portraits that reflect the essence of your story. Whether you’re drawn to the warm glow of golden hour, the soft calm of an overcast day, or the dramatic mood of blue hour, I’ll work with you to create timeless images that you’ll treasure forever. Let’s paint with the light together and make your moments unforgettable.