When I plan my trips for taking photos, I’ve discovered that the time of day can really change everything. Two special times that I rely on are called the golden hour and the blue hour. Let me explain!
This is that magical time right after the sun comes up and just before it goes down. During the golden hour, the light is soft, warm, and dreamy. Here are some tips for making the most of it:
Timing: In the summer, golden hour happens early in the morning and late in the evening. To find out when it is at your destination, you can use weather apps or special photography apps like Golden Hour.
Scout Ahead: If you can, check out the location a day early. This way, you can pick out the best spots for taking photos during the golden hour. Knowing where to go saves time when you need the light to be just right.
Use Reflectors: I like to carry a small reflector. It helps bounce the golden light back onto people’s faces, especially for portraits.
This is a magical time just after the sun goes down or just before it comes up. The sky looks a beautiful shade of blue. Here’s how I make the most of blue hour:
Plan Your Composition: Just like with golden hour, it’s important to think about where you want to take pictures. Consider where to be and what would look great in that pretty blue light.
Use Longer Exposure: Blue hour has less light, so I often use longer exposure times. A tripod is really helpful during this time!
Highlight City Lights: If you're in a city, blue hour is perfect for capturing city lights against the moody sky. Just imagine all the bright signs and twinkling lights!
Watch the Weather: Clouds can help soften harsh sunlight. Don’t hesitate to take photos on cloudy days! They can create amazing, moody shots.
Experiment with Backlighting: Try not to always shoot while facing the light. Photographing into the sun can result in beautiful silhouettes and a dramatic effect.
Be Flexible: Sometimes, the best light happens when we least expect it. Be ready to change your plans based on how the day is going.
By planning around these special times of natural light, I have improved my travel photography and captured really breathtaking moments. Happy shooting!
When I plan my trips for taking photos, I’ve discovered that the time of day can really change everything. Two special times that I rely on are called the golden hour and the blue hour. Let me explain!
This is that magical time right after the sun comes up and just before it goes down. During the golden hour, the light is soft, warm, and dreamy. Here are some tips for making the most of it:
Timing: In the summer, golden hour happens early in the morning and late in the evening. To find out when it is at your destination, you can use weather apps or special photography apps like Golden Hour.
Scout Ahead: If you can, check out the location a day early. This way, you can pick out the best spots for taking photos during the golden hour. Knowing where to go saves time when you need the light to be just right.
Use Reflectors: I like to carry a small reflector. It helps bounce the golden light back onto people’s faces, especially for portraits.
This is a magical time just after the sun goes down or just before it comes up. The sky looks a beautiful shade of blue. Here’s how I make the most of blue hour:
Plan Your Composition: Just like with golden hour, it’s important to think about where you want to take pictures. Consider where to be and what would look great in that pretty blue light.
Use Longer Exposure: Blue hour has less light, so I often use longer exposure times. A tripod is really helpful during this time!
Highlight City Lights: If you're in a city, blue hour is perfect for capturing city lights against the moody sky. Just imagine all the bright signs and twinkling lights!
Watch the Weather: Clouds can help soften harsh sunlight. Don’t hesitate to take photos on cloudy days! They can create amazing, moody shots.
Experiment with Backlighting: Try not to always shoot while facing the light. Photographing into the sun can result in beautiful silhouettes and a dramatic effect.
Be Flexible: Sometimes, the best light happens when we least expect it. Be ready to change your plans based on how the day is going.
By planning around these special times of natural light, I have improved my travel photography and captured really breathtaking moments. Happy shooting!