Need time of day shooting advice

[lilpacheco]

I am shooting a client and her family tonight at their house--next to their wheat field. There will be no shade to run to, so I want to make sure I get the time of day right. Sunset is at 8:30. My client says the light is really even there around 7:30, 8ish. Think that sounds about right? Should we aim to be setting up and started at 7:30 or you think that's still to early? Thanks!

[PhotosGuy]

IMO, it's always better to be too early than too late?

[lilpacheco]

IMO, it's always better to be too early than too late?

Well, that's what I was thinking....I don't think 7:30 will be too late. Do you think an hour before sunset could be too late? I plan to be ready to shoot, camera ready by 7:25.....I did my own family photos 3 weeks ago a little after 7 and it was good timing.....I don't think they are intersted in a long session anyway. They just want a few good shots and that's it.

I was just wondering if there was a good rule of thumb. I read somewhere that you should shoot 30-45 after sunset. Well, where I live that's a tad too dark to be shooting, but I guess my yard has a lot of shade and when I look outside it would just be too dark.

[PhotosGuy]

Do you think an hour before sunset could be too late? I plan to be ready to shoot, camera ready by 7:25.....I did my own family photos 3 weeks ago a little after 7 and it was good timing.... From what you said, "a little after 7" is when you should be shooting?