You will want to use different colors on the hives or change the orientation of the openings otherwise it will confuse the bees as they return from collecting pollen and nectar.
Discussion
Facing east helps them rise with the sun too. But out of windy spots.
Their back is to the east because it's blocked by a wall of bamboo, but the area is due south so they should get more than enough sun.
I heard a good balance of sun & shade is ideal with a wind break?
Interestingly enough, the swarm I caught is positioned facing east but shaded under rhododendron.
I'm going to change the orientation then because I only used tung oil. No paint for me.
Also the wood is kinda unique grain, I wonder if that's enough 🤔