The golden hour, also known as the magic hour, refers to the period shortly after sunrise or just before sunset when the sun is low on the horizon.
During this time, sunlight passes through more of the Earth's atmosphere, causing the light to become warmer and softer. Here are some key characteristics of golden hour light:
● Warm, golden tones: The golden hour is characterized by its warm, golden light that can create a dreamy, romantic atmosphere in your images.
● Soft, diffused light: As the sun is low on the horizon during the golden hour, the light is more diffused, resulting in softer shadows and reduced contrast, making it ideal for photography.
● Directional light: The low angle of the sun during the golden hour creates long shadows and directional light, which can add depth, dimension, and visual interest to your images.
The exact timing of the golden hour can vary depending on your location, the time of year, and the weather conditions. To determine the best time for golden hour photography in your area, consider using a golden hour calculator, such as the one available on websites like golden-hour.com or apps like Sun Surveyor. These tools can help you determine the optimal time window for capturing the golden hour magic in your photography.