There’s something magical about golden hour in summer.
That soft, warm light just before sunset creates the most natural, relaxed atmosphere for family photography — especially for little ones who love to run, play, cuddle, and explore.
As a Surrey & Hampshire family photographer, golden hour sessions are some of my favourite shoots of the year because they feel less posed and more like real memories being captured naturally.
What Is Golden Hour?
Golden hour happens during the hour before sunset when the light becomes softer, warmer, and more flattering.
Unlike harsh midday sun, golden hour creates:
creamy skin tones
soft shadows
dreamy colours
beautiful backlighting
It’s the perfect setting for relaxed outdoor family photos.
Why Summer Sessions Work So Well
Summer evenings are ideal for family photography because:
children are usually more relaxed outdoors
sunsets happen later
parks and fields look beautiful
the warm weather makes sessions more comfortable
Golden hour also gives children space to play naturally instead of sitting still for formal photos.
The Best Locations for Summer Family Photos in Surrey & Hampshire
Some of my favourite golden hour locations in Surrey include:
- Box Hill
rolling hills, golden grass, panoramic views, dreamy summer light. This location is perfect for couples and maternity.
- Virginia Water Lake
Elegant and romantic. It has lakeside paths, woodland, soft reflections & beautiful evening light. This location is great for maternity, families, and romantic couple sessions.
- Frensham Ponds
Very underrated for summer shoots. Sandy areas, water views, tall grasses & sunset reflections. Feels almost coastal in summer.
- Painshill
More refined and luxurious. With bridges, landscaped garden, lakes and elegant scenery. This is a perfect spot if you're going for romantic & timeless. I always feel like I belong in Pride and prejudice when I'm here.
- Newlands Corner
One of the best open-view sunset locations. With wide skies, glowing evening light, and countryside feel this is one of my go to spots for a reason! This is an excellent location for families!
Next up some of my favourite golden hour locations in Hampshire:
- Micheldever Woods
Absolutely gorgeous for: maternity, couples, families with dreamy golden woodland light
- Alice Holt Forest
Amazing filtered golden light through trees. Works beautifully for families with small children and maternity sessions.
- South Downs National Park
Huge golden landscapes. Very cinematic. Perfect for: adventurous couples, flowing maternity dresses & sunset silhouettes
- Hill Head Beach
A space where children can move naturally, it's a great midway-ish for Southampton + Portsmouth families and couples. The beach sunsets are stunning for a family sunset photo session, or a couple looking to unleash their playful side in the water.
These are just some of the locations I love for the sunset, golden hour photos we get in the summer. I always help families choose a location that suits their style and children’s ages.
What Should You Wear?
Soft neutral tones photograph beautifully at sunset.
I usually recommend:
creams
beige
soft blues
earthy tones
flowing fabrics
Avoid large logos or very bright colours as they can distract from the connection in your images.
My Approach to Family Photography
I focus on natural interactions rather than stiff posing.
That means:
cuddles
walking together
children playing
genuine laughter
relaxed moments
The goal is to create photographs that actually feel like your family.
Booking a Summer Golden Hour Session
Summer sunset sessions are limited because golden hour only lasts a short time each evening.
If you’re looking for relaxed outdoor family photography in Surrey, Hampshire or even beyond (I do travel at a great rate and sometimes nothing if I can tie it in to a family trip for me) I’d love to help you plan a session that feels natural, warm, and full of connection.
