If you’ve been thinking about booking a family photo shoot in the Northern Rivers, you might be wondering — what’s the best time of day for photos?

The short answer: it’s all about the light. The soft glow of sunrise and the golden warmth of sunset are the magic makers when it comes to family photography in Byron Bay, Bangalow, Lennox Head, and beyond.

Here’s why timing matters, and how it shapes the feel of your session.

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Golden Hour — The Photographer’s Secret Ingredient

Golden hour is that dreamy slice of time just after sunrise or just before sunset. In the Northern Rivers, this is when the sun sits low, casting a warm, soft light across the beaches, bushland, and hinterland.

It’s flattering, natural, and gentle — no harsh shadows, no squinting eyes. Instead, you get skin tones that glow, skies that turn pastel, and images that feel warm and timeless.

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Why Sunset Works So Well

Evenings are the most popular choice for Byron Bay family photography sessions — and for good reason. By late afternoon, the light softens, the air cools, and families can relax into the rhythm of the evening.

At Lennox Head, that might mean kids racing along the shoreline as the sun drops. In the Bangalow hinterland, it could be golden light streaming across the paddocks in golden grass. Wherever we shoot, sunset brings a calm, unhurried energy that’s perfect for families.

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The Beauty of Early Morning

Sunrise doesn’t get as much love — but if your family are early risers, it’s pure magic. Morning sessions mean empty beaches, cooler air, and fresh energy. At The Pass in Byron Bay, first light can turn the sky shades of pink and lavender. In the bush, you’ll often find mist lifting from the trees, giving photos a soft, ethereal feel.

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Midday? Not Ideal — But Sometimes Okay

The middle of the day in northern NSW brings harsh sunlight and strong shadows — not the most flattering combination. But if your session has to happen then (say, wriggly toddlers with nap schedules), we’ll work with shade, homesteads, and bush tracks to keep the light gentle.

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So, What’s the Best Time?

If you’re after relaxed, natural, and connected images, I’ll always recommend sunset or sunrise family photography in the Northern Rivers. Both times bring out the beauty of the landscape and make space for your family to simply be together, without the distraction of the midday sun.

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Whether you choose the golden glow of evening or the fresh calm of morning, your photos will reflect not just how your family looks — but how it feels to be here, in this beautiful part of northern NSW.