What time is golden hour in photography?

As a photography enthusiast, you may have heard the term "golden hour" being thrown around. But what exactly is golden hour and why is it so important for capturing stunning photographs? In this blog post, we will explore the concept of golden hour, its significance in photography, and the best times to experience it.

What is Golden Hour?

Golden hour refers to the period of time shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the natural light is soft, warm, and diffused. During this time, the sun is low in the sky, creating a beautiful golden glow that adds a magical touch to photographs. The light during golden hour is much softer than the harsh midday sun, resulting in more flattering and dramatic images.

Why is Golden Hour Ideal for Photography?

Golden hour is highly regarded by photographers for several reasons:

• Soft and Warm Light: The warm, golden light during this time adds a beautiful and ethereal quality to photographs. It enhances colors, creates long shadows, and adds depth and dimension to the subject.
• Reduced Contrast: The low angle of the sun during golden hour reduces harsh shadows and minimizes contrast, making it easier to capture details in both highlights and shadows.
• Enhanced Landscapes: The warm light during golden hour can transform landscapes, making them appear more vibrant and captivating. It can turn an ordinary scene into a breathtaking masterpiece.

When Does Golden Hour Occur?

The exact timing of golden hour varies depending on your location and the time of year. Generally, golden hour occurs during the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. However, this can change depending on the time of year and your proximity to the equator.

To determine the specific timing of golden hour in your area, you can use various online tools or smartphone apps that provide accurate sunrise and sunset times. These tools take into account your location and the time of year to calculate the optimal timing for golden hour.

Make the Most of Golden Hour

If you want to capture stunning photographs during golden hour, here are a few tips:

• Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast and plan your shoot in advance. Cloudy or overcast days can also create beautiful lighting conditions during golden hour.
• Arrive Early: Arrive at your location well before golden hour begins to set up your equipment and scout for the best angles and compositions.
• Experiment with Composition: Use the soft, warm light to experiment with different compositions, angles, and perspectives. Golden hour offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning silhouettes, backlit subjects, and long shadows.
• Shoot in Manual Mode: To have full control over your exposure, shoot in manual mode. Adjust your aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to achieve the desired effect.
• Be Patient: Golden hour is relatively short, so make the most of every minute. Stay patient and be ready to capture those magical moments.

Now that you understand the concept of golden hour and its significance in photography, it's time to grab your camera and head out during this magical time. Embrace the soft, warm light, and let your creativity soar as you capture stunning images that will leave a lasting impression.

What kit do you need to shoot at Golden Hour?

Any camera would do in a pinch, but one with manual controls would be best to make the most of the light. A full frame camera would produce the best results, something like the Canon R8 or Nikon ZF. For portraits or details you may need a wide apertured lens something with an F-stop of F2.8 or wider. If landscapes are the focus then a tripd would be essential, the BENRO BAT FBAT05CVX20 carbon fibre tripod is a great all rounder.