Best Time to Shoot Your Pre-Wedding or Engagement Video

Example of empty Distraction-Free Locations

Choosing the right time for your pre-wedding or engagement video shoot can make a huge difference in how your final video looks and feels. From soft golden-hour light to dramatic seasonal backdrops, the right timing can enhance the cinematic quality of your shoot. Whether you’re planning a local or destination shoot, this guide will help you decide the best season and time of day for your engagement or pre-wedding videography.

Best Days & Time of Day for Your Shoot

📅 Weekdays Are Best for Public Locations – If you’re shooting in a public place, weekdays (Monday to Thursday) are ideal as they are much less crowded. This allows for a more intimate and stress-free experience.

📍 Permitted Locations – If you’re booking a location that requires a permit, you can choose any day, as the reservation ensures exclusivity.

💡 Our Recommendation: We prefer weekday shoots because all the public locations are empty and available. If you are reserving a permit for location, weekends also works, but during the wedding season we are generally booked on the weekends.

🌅 Golden Hour (1-2 hours before sunset or after sunrise)

• Soft, warm, and flattering lighting

• Creates a natural, romantic glow

• Best for outdoor engagement shoots

🌆 Blue Hour (Just after sunset or before sunrise)

• Creates a cool, cinematic and moody look

• Perfect for cityscapes or skyline shots

• Best for couples looking for a unique, dramatic feel

💡 Pro Tip: If possible, plan your engagement shoot to capture both golden and blue hour shots for variety in your final video.

Spring – Fresh, Romantic & Colorful

Best Months: April – May

Best Time of Day: 2-3 hours before sunset for warm golden tones.

Spring is a beautiful time for engagement shoots, offering fresh greenery, blooming flowers, and soft pastel colors that create a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. The mild temperatures make outdoor shooting comfortable, and the natural colors pop beautifully in videos.

✅ Pros: Soft natural light, vibrant colors, comfortable weather

❌ Cons: Unpredictable rain, allergies, and sometimes wet grounds

📍 Best Locations: Parks, botanical gardens, cherry blossom areas, European-style streets

💡 Pro Tip: Plan for a backup indoor location in case of spring showers.

Summer – Bright, Warm & Vibrant

Best Months: June – August

Best Time of Day: Early morning or golden hour (sunrise or sunset) to avoid harsh midday sun.

Summer is perfect for adventurous outdoor shoots, from beaches to urban streets and scenic landscapes. However, midday light can be too harsh, so early morning or golden hour is best for softer, more flattering lighting.

✅ Pros: Beautiful natural light at golden hour, long daylight hours, lively atmosphere

❌ Cons: Hot temperatures, harsh midday shadows, crowded locations

📍 Best Locations: Beaches, lakesides, urban rooftop views, mountain escapes

💡 Pro Tip: If shooting during the day, use props like umbrellas or hats for stylish sun protection.

Fall – Cozy, Cinematic & Full of Warm Tones

Best Months: September – November

Best Time of Day: 3-4 hours before sunset for golden, warm lighting

Fall is one of the most popular seasons for pre-wedding and engagement shoots due to the stunning autumn foliage and cozy atmosphere. The deep reds, oranges, and golden leaves create a natural, cinematic color palette for breathtaking shots.

✅ Pros: Gorgeous natural colors, mild temperatures, flattering golden-hour lighting

❌ Cons: Shorter daylight hours, unpredictable weather in late fall

📍 Best Locations: Forested trails, parks with autumn leaves, rustic barns, vineyards

💡 Pro Tip: Wear earthy tones or deep, rich colors that complement the fall scenery for a cohesive look.

Winter – Magical, Elegant & Dramatic

Best Months: December – February

Best Time of Day: Late morning or early afternoon for natural daylight

Winter engagement shoots can be incredibly romantic and cinematic, especially with snow-covered landscapes or festive holiday lights. However, it’s important to dress appropriately to stay comfortable and stylish.

✅ Pros: Dreamy snow backgrounds, festive city lights, cozy and intimate feel

❌ Cons: Cold temperatures, limited daylight, potential for snowstorms

📍 Best Locations: Snowy parks, city streets with holiday lights, ice-skating rinks, cozy indoor cafes

💡 Pro Tip: Wear layered, stylish outfits with cozy accessories like scarves, coats, and gloves to stay warm while looking great on camera.

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Time for Your Engagement Video

✔ Plan around the weather – Check forecasts to avoid rain or extreme conditions.

✔ Avoid crowds – Weekdays are best, especially for public locations.

✔ Consider the theme – Light, airy, and romantic? Spring/summer. Cozy, cinematic, and moody? Fall/winter.

✔ Dress appropriately – Outfit choices should match the season and location.

✔ Relax & enjoy! – The best shots come when you’re comfortable and having fun.

Let’s Plan Your Engagement Shoot at the Perfect Time!

The right timing will make your pre-wedding or engagement video look even more stunning. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic golden-hour shoot, a cozy fall setting, or a cinematic winter wonderland, we’ll help you find the perfect moment to capture your love story.

📅 Contact us today to book your engagement shoot! Let’s make cinematic magic together! 🎥