According to Pinterest’s 2025 Wedding Trend Report, blue hour photography is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after wedding photography styles—and it’s not hard to see why. This moody, romantic aesthetic captures you in a soft, cinematic glow that feels like true-blue magic. Couples and photographers alike are embracing this golden-meets-blue moment to elevate their wedding portraits with an ethereal, editorial flair. Sign us up.
So, What Exactly Is Blue Hour?
“Blue hour” refers to the brief window of time—usually about 20 to 40 minutes—just before sunrise or just after sunset, when the sky turns a deep, rich blue. Unlike its big sis golden hour, which bathes the scene in warm light, blue hour offers a cool, soulful tone that adds drama and depth to your wedding photos. Think: deep blue skies, glowing city lights, and silhouettes that look straight out of a movie still. *Heart-eyes emoji*
Pinterest searches for “blue hour wedding photos” and “artsy wedding photography” have skyrocketed in the past year, with more couples looking for ways to create these stunning, one-of-a-kind images that stand out in their wedding albums—and of course, on social media.
Why Blue Hour Photography Is Trending in 2025
The rise of editorial wedding photos has paved the way for more stylized, cinematic moments, and blue hour fits this aesthetic perfectly. Modern couples want their photos to tell their story, and the dreamy lighting of blue hour adds instant drama and emotion to the frame.
In 2025, intimate weddings, elopements, and sunset ceremonies are more popular than ever. Blue hour photography complements these trends, offering a way to capture candid, unposed moments with an artistic twist. The look is both timeless and modern—perf for couples who want wedding pictures that feel like them.
How You Can Achieve the Blue Hour Look
Want to take advantage? Here’s how to plan for blue hour photography on your big day:
1. Schedule Your Timeline Strategically
To capture those dreamy tones, you’ll need to work closely with your photographer to build your wedding day timeline around sunset (or sunrise, if you’re up for an early start!). Your wedding photo schedule should allow for at least 20-30 minutes of shooting during blue hour, ideally right after your ceremony or during cocktail hour.
2. Choose the Right Location
Scenic venues like mountaintops, rooftops, or oceanside are perfect for blue hour portraits. The open sky and wide views enhance the effect. Urban locations with twinkling city lights also photograph beautifully in this light.
3. Talk to Your Photographer About Lighting
While natural light is the star of the show, a skilled photographer may use minimal flash or ambient lighting to balance exposure without washing out the blue hues. Ask your wedding photographer if they’re familiar with blue hour techniques and request to see their portfolio for examples!
4. Dress and Accessorize Accordingly
Wedding gowns with reflective details—like beading, sequins, or satin—catch the fading light beautifully during blue hour. Soft tulle veils, flowing skirts, and elegant silhouettes also enhance the romantic, dreamy vibe. Consider coordinating your bridesmaid dresses and florals in complementary tones like Dusty Blue, Silver, or Ivory to amplify the mood.
Blue Hour, Your Way
Whether you’re saying “I do” at a destination wedding or planning a local ceremony with a little twist, blue hour wedding photography can add a cinematic layer to your love story. It’s a trend that’s here to stay—not just because we say so, but because it helps capture the real, fleeting magic of your most special day. Looking to make your wedding photos Pinterest-worthy? Don’t sleep on the blue hour—it might just be the most unforgettable light of the day.
Looking for more inspo? Check out Pearl by David’s for all the latest trends, advice, and more.
