When to Book Your Real Estate Photos
At Galusha Photography, we can create strong results in nearly any lighting condition. That said, the angle and direction of natural sunlight can affect how the front of a home photographs and what tools we’ll use to achieve the best results.
This guide helps you understand when natural light is most flattering for exterior shots based on which direction your home faces. The sun’s position also shifts seasonally in New England, so timing adjustments are sometimes needed.
Best Times by Home Orientation
□ East-Facing Homes
Ideal: 8:00 – 10:00 AM – Direct morning light on the facade.
Workable: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM – Light softens as the sun moves higher and southward.
Avoid: After 12:00 PM – The sun is behind or off to the side; shadows and backlight increase.
□ South-Facing Homes
Ideal: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Full, even southern exposure during midday.
Workable: 2:30 – 4:00 PM (or 2:00 – 3:00 PM in winter) – Some angled light remains.
Avoid: Before 9:00 AM or after 4:00 PM – Light becomes uneven or falls behind the house.
□ West-Facing Homes
Ideal: 2:00 – 5:00 PM (or 1:00 – 4:00 PM in winter) – Afternoon sun hits the front directly.
Workable: 12:30 – 1:30 PM – Early light begins to reach the facade.
Avoid: Before 11:00 AM – Front remains in full shade or backlight.
□ North-Facing Homes
Ideal: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Brightest ambient light, even without direct sun.
Workable: 2:30 – 4:00 PM (or 2:00 – 3:00 PM in winter) – Still usable with lighting/editing tools.
Avoid: Early morning – Backlight and harsh contrast can cause exposure issues.
Need Help Choosing the Best Time?
Turnaround: Most shoots are delivered by 7:00 AM the next morning.
□ Book Your Shoot Now