Your Golden Hour Photography Guide to Leiden & Voorschoten
Golden hour isn't just a time of day — it's a feeling.
It's when everything softens. The world glows. And the light wraps around you like memory.
We built Koaplinchik around this light. It's our muse.
This guide shares our favorite locations and tips to help you fall in love with the hour before sunset — whether you're booking a shoot or just chasing the perfect photo.
Our Top 5 Golden Hour Locations
Katwijk Beach Dunes
Our favorite sunset spot. Rolling dunes, open skies, quiet wind. Perfect for maternity or couples. The light here is unfiltered magic, especially in summer.
Voorschoten Forest Path
Quiet trails. Tall trees. Kids love it. Light filters through the leaves like a dream. Best in late spring when the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers.
Leiden Canals at Sunset
Urban romance. Historic bridges. Reflections of love on water. The buildings create a perfect frame for couples, with light bouncing off the canal surface.
Meijendel Nature Reserve
For families who love a bit of adventure. Tall grass, wild paths, cinematic light. The dunes here create natural reflectors that bathe everyone in golden light.
TeddyKids Studio Garden (Private)
Our secret spot. A quiet garden space we use for newborns and first birthday shoots. Available exclusively for Koaplinchik clients at our Leidseweg 553 studio.
Golden Hour Basics
Seasonal Timing
- ✦In summer (June-August), golden hour is around 20:30 – 21:30
- ✦In spring/autumn (April/September), expect it around 19:00 – 20:00
- ✦In winter (December-February), it can start as early as 15:30
- ✦We always schedule sessions to end 15 minutes before sunset
- ✦The magic window lasts about 30-60 minutes depending on season
Equipment & Style
- ✦Best gear: 35mm or 50mm prime lenses, wide open (f/1.2-f/2.0)
- ✦Always shoot with the light behind your subject for that glow
- ✦Want that signature glow? Wear earthy tones (beige, blush, olive)
- ✦Avoid bright patterns or logos that distract from the light
- ✦Bring a reflector to bounce light back onto faces
Want our complete guide?
Download our free PDF with detailed timing charts, what to wear, and insider tips for golden hour photography in the Netherlands.
Download Golden Hour Style GuideGolden Hour Questions
What is golden hour?
Golden hour is the short period just after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is low, the light is soft, and everything feels cinematic. In the Netherlands, this magical light has a unique quality due to our flat landscape and often dramatic skies. The light during this time is diffused, warm, and creates a natural glow on skin that's impossible to replicate with artificial lighting.
Why do you love shooting in golden hour?
Because emotion needs space to breathe — and golden hour gives us that space in light. The soft, directional quality of golden hour light creates natural dimension and depth that flatters everyone. It's especially magical for maternity sessions in Leiden and family portraits in Voorschoten, where the warm glow enhances the emotional connection between subjects.
Can we shoot in winter golden hour?
Absolutely. It's shorter, but the light is even softer — and we'll guide you through it. Winter golden hour in the Netherlands has a special quality: the sun stays lower in the sky all day, creating longer shadows and more dramatic light even outside the traditional golden hour.
For winter sessions, we recommend locations like Leiden canals where the buildings provide shelter from wind, or our Leidseweg 553 studio garden where we can quickly move indoors if needed. We also provide hand warmers and hot drinks for winter golden hour sessions!
What happens if it's cloudy during our session?
Clouds are actually a photographer's friend! They act as a giant softbox, creating even, flattering light. While we might miss the dramatic golden glow, cloudy days in the Netherlands create a soft, dreamy quality that's perfect for intimate portraits. We adjust our locations and techniques based on weather conditions to ensure beautiful results regardless of sunshine.
How do I book a golden hour session?
Simply contact us and mention you're interested in a golden hour session. We'll check sunset times for your preferred dates and recommend the perfect location from our guide based on your vision. We typically book golden hour sessions 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure availability, but sometimes have last-minute openings when the forecast looks particularly magical.
Location Map
This map shows our favorite golden hour photography locations in and around Leiden and Voorschoten. Click on each marker for specific details about the best time to visit and parking information.
Want to plan your own golden moment?
Golden hour sessions are available year-round in Leiden, Voorschoten, and surrounding areas.