Recs on outdoor portrait time...

[audrey77]

We're having our portrait taken outside in Florida in early May. We can pick a time between 8:30 AM and 5 PM.... what time would you suggest (lighting wise)? It would be with DH and a 2 year old. The only equipment will be the camera since we will be roaming the resort pretty quickly for shots.

[trudem]

Pretty much any photographer you talk to/read says that the best time of day for light is either early morning or late afternoon, but really if you stick to open shade (as per Scott Kelby's recommendations) you should be okay.

[HeidiKnight]

I would choose 5:00. My second choice would be 8:30.

[audrey77]

Thanks... I know all about the shade and everything... but it would be impossible... we'll be inside and outside... on the beach... on the lake... etc. I was thinking of going with the earliest... And definitely NOT noon! thanks!

[lwarren]

I agree - the earliest or the latest!!

[sam ellis]

I don't know about the light there and what the sun does but the BEST BEST color light is about 2-3 hours before sunset. so whatever time sunset is work that backwards.

I also find in my family shoots I shoot for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours so see how long your photograher is shooting for. Leave enough time for all your location moves too !

Have fun.

[katrinak]

Since you are shooting with a 2 year old I would also factor in his or her best time. I would hate to have great light and a cranky uncooperative subject! (ahhh 2....I guess that can't really be predicted can it??!! )

[Starlite9711]

I live in FL as well, and I would go with 5. Second choice being 830 as others have mentioned. Like Sam says this is the best color light. Sunset Right now is around 7:30 ish. Do you live here or will you be vacationing?!