Golden Hour
Beginner Lighting Principle
Golden hour lighting is the warm, soft light that occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset. During this time, the sun is low in the sky, creating a golden glow with long, soft shadows that add depth and warmth to photos.
Unlike harsh midday light, golden hour lighting is more diffused, reducing glare and making skin tones appear more flattering. It’s an ideal time for portraits, landscapes, and cityscapes, as the rich colors and gentle contrast make images look naturally beautiful. To make the most of golden hour, plan your shots in advance and experiment with backlighting, silhouettes, and lens flare for a creative touch.
Move to the next Beginner Lighting Principle: Blue Hour
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“To me, photography is an art of observation. It’s about finding something interesting in an ordinary place.”