Golden hour
The golden hour, also known as magic hour, is a period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the light is softer and warmer in colour, creating a beautiful and flattering effect for photography. During this time, the sun is closer to the horizon, and the light travels through more of the Earth's atmosphere, scattering the blue light and producing a warm, golden glow.
Many photographers prefer to shoot during the golden hour because of the warm and soft lighting that creates a beautiful and flattering effect, especially for portrait photography and landscapes.
The golden hour is caused by the angle of the sun being low in the sky. The sun's rays have to travel through more of the atmosphere to reach the Earth, and this scattering of sunlight creates the soft, warm light that characterises the golden hour.
The exact timing and duration of the golden hour depend on the location, time of year, and weather conditions. Typically, the golden hour lasts for about an hour or so, with the light becoming progressively more golden and softer as the sun gets closer to the horizon.
The golden hour is a popular time for photographers to shoot because the light is flattering and easy to work with. It can also be a good time to shoot landscapes, as the soft light can help to create a sense of atmosphere.
If you're interested in taking advantage of the golden hour in your photography, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
Check the weather forecast and make sure that it's going to be clear skies.
Plan your shots ahead of time and know what you want to capture.
Bring a tripod to help you stabilise your camera.
Experiment with different settings and see what works best for you.
Most importantly, enjoy the experience!
