Cartagena Guide · No. 02
The Best Time for a Flying Dress Photoshoot in Cartagena
The best time of year for a flying dress photoshoot in Cartagena is December through March, when temperatures are milder, rain is rare and steady Caribbean breezes keep the dress flying. The best time of day is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the city is cooler and quieter.
Cartagena Weather by Season
After photographing over 1,000 people in Cartagena, here is everything we have learned about timing your session. Cartagena is hot and humid all year, with daytime temperatures that change very little from month to month. What changes is the rain and the breeze.
- 01
December to March (dry season)The most comfortable months. Rain is rare, humidity feels lighter and the trade winds pick up, which is good news for a flying dress.
- 02
AprilA transition month, usually still dry and sunny.
- 03
May to November (rainy season)The official rainy season, with October the rainiest month. In practice, we do not see a lot of rain. When it does rain, it is usually a tropical shower, often overnight, and it passes quickly.
Our Favorite Months
December is our favorite time of year in Cartagena. The temperatures are milder, the breeze is steady, and the whole city feels festive, with lights, music and celebrations everywhere. It is also one of the busiest months, so book your session as early as you can.
January through March is a close second. You get the same comfortable weather and steady breezes, with fewer holiday crowds after the first week of January.
Any month works. In four years in business, we have had to reschedule fewer than 10 sessions because of rain.
Should I Avoid the Rainy Season?
No. Any month works, and we shoot year round without issues. Showers in Cartagena tend to be short and sporadic, and the sky often clears to the most dramatic light of the day. If rain does arrive at your session time, we can postpone by an hour or two, or reschedule you for another day.
Golden hour on Cartagena Bay
The Best Time of Day for Your Session
We recommend starting your session at 7:00 or 8:00 a.m., or at 4:30 or 5:00 p.m.
The coolest, most comfortable time of day. The light is soft and flattering, and the streets of the Old City and Getsemaní are at their quietest, so your photos feel like you have the city to yourself.
Warm golden light that makes the colors of the dress and the city glow. The sun sets between about 5:30 and 6:15 p.m. all year, so afternoon sessions end at golden hour.
Midday is possible, but the heat and strong sun make it harder on you and on the light. If midday is the only time that fits your plans, you can still choose your own start time when you book.
Best Timing by Location
| Location | Best time | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Old City | Early morning or late afternoon | Quiet streets and soft light in the morning, warm color on the walls and balconies in the afternoon. |
| Getsemaní | Early morning | The neighborhood gets very crowded in the afternoon. Afternoon sessions are available if you prefer. |
| The beach | Early morning | Before the crowds arrive. Afternoon sessions are available if you prefer. |
| Yachts and catamarans | Sunset | Our sunset sessions on Cartagena Bay are timed for golden hour. Our Island Hopping Photoshoot for Groups is a full-day catamaran experience to the Rosario Islands. |
Planning Tips
- Book early for December and January. These are our busiest months.
- Arriving on a cruise ship? Share your ship name and docking time when you book and we will plan your session around it.
- Want your photos fast? Expedited processing delivers your edited photos within 72 hours of your selection.
Pick Your Month. We Will Bring the Breeze.
Flying Dress Cartagena® has photographed over 1,000 people in Cartagena. We know this city, we know this light, and we know exactly how to make you look and feel extraordinary in it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month for a flying dress photoshoot in Cartagena?
December is our favorite month, with milder temperatures, steady breezes and a festive atmosphere. January through March is a close second. That said, any month works. We shoot year round, and in four years we have had to reschedule fewer than 10 sessions because of rain.
When is the rainy season in Cartagena?
The official rainy season runs from May to November, with October the rainiest month. In practice, rain is usually a short tropical shower, often overnight.
What happens if it rains on the day of my shoot?
If rain arrives at your session time, we can postpone by an hour or two, or reschedule you for another day.
What time of day is best for a flying dress photoshoot?
Early morning (7:00 or 8:00 a.m.) for cool temperatures, soft light and quiet streets, or late afternoon (4:30 or 5:00 p.m.) for warm golden light.
What time is sunset in Cartagena?
Because Cartagena is close to the equator, the sun sets between about 5:30 and 6:15 p.m. all year.
