Sunrise vs Sunset Elopements: Which is Better?
For couples considering an elopement, choosing the time of day could be one of the first choices they make following foundational decisions. While sunrise and sunset elopements are equally beautiful and unique for different reasons, I have created a comparison of the two to better equip you in making your day as perfect as possible.
Sunrise Elopements
Pros of Eloping at Sunrise
Less Crowds:
Early morning is the best time to visit popular places and enjoy a secluded experience.
Cooler Temperatures:
Enjoy comfortable temperatures in the early mornings, especially in warmer locations.
Lighting Opportunities:
Photo opportunities are generally better in the mornings due to the sunrise's soft and gentle light.
Spend the Whole Day as a Married Couple:
Make the most of your elopement day and spend it as a married couple from the get-go.
Cons of Eloping at Sunrise :
Early Wake-Up Call:
Requires waking up early, which might not suit everyone.
Getting Guests Out and About:
Convincing guests to rise early and join may be a challenge if you plan to have any.
Trekking to Your Destination in the Dark:
Navigating to the elopement location may be trickier in low light.
Things Couples Can Enjoy When Choosing a Sunrise Elopement:
Capturing First Light Photos:
Seize the opportunity for stunning photos that capture the first light of dawn.
Morning Wildlife Encounters:
Wildlife is more likely seen during early morning hours.
Capture Morning Mist or Fog:
Couples are likelier to see mist or fog in the morning, particularly near water.
Sunset Elopements
Pros of Eloping at Sunset:
Get More Sleep:
Most of us enjoy sleeping in and waking up feeling well-rested.
Warmer Weather:
Enjoy comfortable temperatures in the evenings, especially in colder locations.
Stargazing Opportunities:
How often do you have the chance to gaze up into clear skies?
Golden Hour Photo Opportunities:
Take advantage of golden hour's bold and flattering glow during the evenings.
The Build-Up to the Ceremony:
Your entire day will lead to your ceremony, creating anticipation and excitement.
Cons of Eloping at Sunset:
Larger Crowds:
Golden hour is a popular time of day and often attracts more visitors due to lighting opportunities and sunsets.
Late Sunset Times:
Depending on the season, sunset times can be later in the evening. This could call for later after-ceremony celebrations.
Difficulty Planning After Ceremony Celebrations:
Coordinating post-ceremony activities may be challenging due to guest curfew preferences, business schedules, activity availability, etc.
Things Couples Can Enjoy When Choosing a Sunset Elopement:
Capture the Sunset in Photographs:
As the sun sets, couples can enjoy photo opportunities with colorful skies and bold lighting.
Capture Twilight Lighting Opportunities:
Once the sun surpasses the horizon, softer, moodier, and more intimate lighting opportunities arise. Varying from subtle shadows to flash-required darkness, couples have a variety of lighting styles to choose from in the evening.
Evening Celebration:
Enjoy an evening celebration in accommodating areas as nightlife picks up and tourists go back to their hotels.
Choosing between a sunrise and sunset elopement depends on your preferences and priorities, but both offer unique opportunities not found in the other. Regardless of what you choose, your elopement will be a beautiful experience not easily forgotten.
Let’s talk about your elopement today.
Hi, I’m Bethany! As your future elopement photographer, it is my job to help guide you through your many choices in planning your wedding day. From destinations and permits to what to wear and when to go, I am here to help you every step of the way.
