Timeless Golden Hour Family Photos in Central Pennsylvania
Fall in Central Pennsylvania is truly magical, and capturing golden hour family photos during this season creates memories that will last a lifetime. Recently, we had the honor of photographing the Hallstrom family during a beautiful autumn evening session — a special moment following their wedding day, making it all the more meaningful.
Why Golden Hour is Perfect for Family Photos
Golden hour—the hour just before sunset—offers the softest, warmest, and most flattering light for photography. This natural glow enhances skin tones and adds a romantic, dreamy quality to every photo. For families like the Hallstroms, who cherish authentic moments, golden hour provides the perfect atmosphere to capture genuine smiles, tender interactions, and joyful laughter.
During this session, the rich autumn foliage of Central Pennsylvania provided a vibrant, colorful backdrop. The reds, oranges, and golds of the season blended beautifully with the warm light, resulting in images that feel timeless and full of emotion.
The Hallstrom Family Session: A Celebration of Love and Connection
Having previously captured the Hallstroms’ wedding day, we knew just how special their bond was. Their family session felt like a continuation of their story—a celebration of the life they’ve built together.
The casual yet intentional wardrobe choices blended harmoniously with the fall colors and golden light. Earthy tones, layered textures, and soft neutrals helped to create cohesive and natural images. We focused on candid moments—children playing, parents embracing, and multigenerational connections that spoke volumes without words.
Tips for Planning Your Own Golden Hour Family Photos
If you’re considering a family session during golden hour, here are some tips inspired by our experience with the Hallstrom family:
Schedule Around Sunset: Plan your shoot about 45–60 minutes before sunset to capture the full range of golden hour lighting.
Choose Earthy, Coordinated Outfits: Soft browns, greens, creams, and rust tones complement the season and natural surroundings.
Embrace Candid Moments: Let your family interact naturally rather than posing rigidly. Genuine smiles and laughter make for the most memorable photos.
Consider Meaningful Locations: Whether it’s a local park, your backyard, or a favorite spot, select a location that holds sentimental value.
Bring Props or Personal Items: Blankets, favorite toys, or even pets can add an extra layer of personalization to your session.
Why Family Photos Matter
Family portraits aren’t just images — they’re heirlooms, storytelling devices that capture your unique connection in a moment of time. Especially during milestone seasons like fall, these photos become a treasured part of your family’s history.
For the Hallstroms, their golden hour family photos are a beautiful reminder of the love and warmth that surround them every day, just as we captured on their wedding day. These images will be cherished for generations.
If you’re ready to capture your own golden hour family photos in Central Pennsylvania, we’d love to help. Contact JTR Media today to schedule a session tailored to your family’s story and style.