Summer Wedding Photography: Light, Shadows, and Comfort

Summer Wedding Photography: Light, Shadows, and Comfort

Summer weddings in Edmonton (and across Alberta) are a dream for many couples — long daylight hours, blooming river valley parks, warm golden light, and that endless feeling of celebration under open skies. But summer also brings its own photography challenges: harsh midday sun, deep shadows, heat, wind, and sudden thunderstorms.

As a wedding photographer who has shot dozens of summer weddings here, I know exactly how to turn these elements into advantages. Here’s a practical, up-to-date guide (2026 season) on how to master light, shadows, and comfort so your summer wedding photos look soft, romantic, and effortless — no matter how hot or bright the day gets.

1. Understanding Summer Light in Edmonton

Edmonton’s summer light is dramatic and changes fast — you have to work with it, not against it.

Golden Hour (Best Time)

• 1–2 hours before sunset (~8:30–10:00 PM in June/July).
• Warm, soft, honey-colored light.
• Long, gentle shadows that add depth and romance.
• Skin glows, eyes sparkle, everything feels cinematic.
• Most couples’ favorite portraits come from this window.

Blue Hour (Evening Magic)

• 20–40 minutes after sunset.
• Deep blue sky + venue/city lights = moody, dreamy shots.
• Perfect for night portraits, first dance, or grand exits.

Midday Sun (Avoid for Main Portraits)

• 11 AM–4 PM: harsh overhead light.
• Creates deep shadows under eyes/nose (“raccoon eyes”), squinting, blown-out highlights.
• Use only in open shade, under trees, or indoors with big windows.

Overcast Days

• Giant natural softbox — soft, even light all day.
• No harsh shadows, beautiful skin tones.
• Ideal for the whole day — many photographers secretly love overcast summer days.

Quick Summer Sunset Times (2026)

• June: ~9:45–10:15 PM
• July: ~9:30–10:00 PM
• August: ~8:45–9:30 PM

Plan couple portraits around golden hour — shift the ceremony earlier if needed.

2. Mastering Shadows in Summer Photography

Harsh shadows are the biggest enemy of summer portraits — but they’re easy to control.

Best Ways to Eliminate or Use Shadows

• Open shade — under large trees, building overhangs, or rented shade sails. Soft, even light with no deep facial shadows.
• Reflectors — bounce light back onto faces to fill in shadows.
• Backlighting — position the couple with the sun behind them for glowing halos and rim light (great for silhouettes and dreamy looks).
• Embrace long shadows — during golden hour, dramatic shadows add depth and mood — use them creatively (e.g., couple walking, shadow stretching across the grass).
• Avoid direct overhead sun — schedule main portraits outside midday.

3. Comfort for Couple & Guests (Key to Natural Photos)

Happy, comfortable people = relaxed, genuine expressions.

For the Couple

• Breathable fabrics: chiffon, linen, lightweight silk.
• Comfortable shoes: wedges or flats for grass (change to heels for posed shots).
• Waterproof makeup + setting spray — summer shine and humidity are real.
• Portable fan/mister for hot days.
• Quick shade breaks — have a shaded area with water, snacks, and fans.

For Guests

• Padded chairs or cushions — grass can be uneven.
• Large umbrellas or sail shades for ceremony.
• Cold drinks on arrival (lemonade, infused water).
• Bug spray & sunscreen stations.
• Fans/misters for heatwaves.

Comfortable guests = candid laughter, relaxed faces, authentic joy.

4. Summer Photography Hacks That Work

• First Look — Do it mid-afternoon for relaxed portraits in great light.
• Movement — Summer breeze makes dresses flow — walking, spinning, running through fields create dynamic shots.
• Rain magic — short summer showers pass fast — clear umbrellas, puddle reflections, wet pavement glow.
• Backup gear — weather-sealed cameras, rain covers, extra batteries (heat drains them).
• Second shooter — worth it for summer weddings — one covers ceremony, the other captures guests/reactions.

5. Styling & Details That Shine in Summer

• Colors — fresh pastels, bold jewel tones, crisp white with greenery.
• Florals — wildflowers, peonies, sunflowers — big, loose arrangements.
• Attire — flowy dresses, lightweight suits, breathable fabrics.
• Comfort — flats for grass, sunscreen, bug spray, cold drinks.
• Evening — string lights, lanterns, sparklers for blue-hour magic.

Summer weddings in Edmonton are open, warm, and full of life. The long light, green landscapes, and relaxed energy create a perfect canvas for emotional, timeless photographs. With the right planning — golden hour portraits, a comfortable timeline, and a venue that feels like you — your summer wedding will be unforgettable.

If you’re dreaming of a summer wedding in Edmonton filled with golden light, laughter, and natural beauty, I’d love to capture it. My style thrives in summer’s warmth and extended daylight. Reach out — let’s make your wedding day glow.