Taking Pictures at the Golden Hours

All Landscape and Nature Photographers know that particular time of the day that lends itself to stunning and dramatic photographs is what we know as the Golden Hour. This period vary but is usually two times in a day. In the morning just a moment as the sun is rising. This is usually about 5.30am to 6.30am in the morning. And in the evening just as the sun is setting. Of course, the precise time would vary with the seasons of the year.

This is the time when due to the angle of the sun relative to the horizon, the rays fall tangentially, the shadows cast are at their longest length and the rays assume a golden yellow cast that is very dramatic for photography. Imagine a river side scene at this time of the day with fishermen in a boat silhouette against the setting golden sun casting long shadows towards you as you compose your picture with the sun reflecting golden rays on the water. It can be such a beautiful scene. It brings calmness and serenity and such pictures taken at this time could be therapeutic for the mind.

Triborough Bridge New York (Taken with a Smartphone Camera at 5.14pm)

Steemians interested in the art of photography should know this and try out taking pictures at these period with whatever camera you have. The effort will be well rewarded with sweet pictures. The two pictures I present here are taken with a simple Cellphone camera and a Compact Camera, the Samsung DV 150f on different days.

Unfortunately, bad weather with overcast cloudy skies can ruin the experience. But it is worth waiting for.

Please note that it is not only nature and landscape that benefit from golden hours. Portraits or just candid pictures of yourself and loved ones are also enhanced. The golden warmth of the light at this time renders the skin beautiful and tend to hide flaws. So, try it out guys. Shoot more pictures at sunset and sunrise. You will be amazed at the results you get.

A View in Sapele, Nigeria (Taken with Samsung DV150f at 5.45pm)

Hope you find the pictures interesting and the post educative. Please don't forget to upvote this post and resteem. Your comments are also welcome.