by Mary Denman @MaryDenman
Today, I'm going to explain something called the Golden Hour. It occurs twice a day. During the Golden Hour, the light is most flattering for people. And, it creates some magical effects which is why it's also called Magic Hour.
Technically, it's when the sun is between 0 to 6 degrees with respect to the horizon.
Practically, it occurs for the first hour after the sun breaks the horizon in the morning. Then, it occurs again for the last hour of the day before the sun sets.
Let's see what the Golden Light looks like and how it differs from other light throughout the day.
When the sun is directly overheard, it is strong and harsh.
But in the second shot, notice how much more flattering the light is. It's the same boy, but he looks tanner and there are no harsh shadows.
The waves are not stark white but are a warmer color.
Can you see where the name Golden Hour comes from?
As the sun rises and sets, its light has to travel through more of the atmosphere which is what causes the softer, longer shadows and golden color.
As the sun rises and sets, its light has to travel through more of the atmosphere which is what causes the softer, longer shadows and golden color.
So let's look at a couple of other shots.
This first one was taken around noon in Venice, Italy.
While the buildings are painted lovely colors, they appear a little drab because of the cloud cover.
You can even see the reflection of the peach building in the water.
It's good to understand that all light is not equal and that Golden Hour can dramatically affect your photography.
Part 2 of Golden Hour will focus more on people shots during Golden Hour and what other images you can create with the sun low on the horizon.
ASSIGNMENT: Actually pay attention to how sunlight changes throughout the day. Notice how the early morning light and late day light are warm and gold toned.
TWEETABLE:
Loved the sample pics, Mary. There's an app now that tells/reminds you that the Golden Hour is approaching. It's pretty cool. :)
ReplyDeleteOf course there's an app for that! :) As I looked through my photos for examples, I was surprised how much I use Golden Hour without even thinking about it. Once you see it, I think it becomes very attractive and you use it without realizing it.
DeleteWhat a difference it makes! I'll have to try it out. Is it more important for long-distance shots? Of course, Mary, your pictures are great any time of day.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sherry! But I do take a ton of shots early in the morning and late in the afternoon. :)
DeleteIsn't that a lovely time for photography?
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/04/stop-looking-at-me.html
It is for sure! Thanks for dropping by!
DeleteLovely pictures Mary, great tips :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing at the weekend blog hop
I stumpled into this tip one day as I was comparing some of my photos of the same spot and noticed how gorgeous it was during the golden hour. Mary you are so right. My favorite time is in the morning or right before the sun goes down. I live in Greece and the sun is blinding I hate to take pics during the day. I am hosting a new link party Sweet Inspiration and would love to have you join us. It runs Friday till Tuesday
ReplyDelete