What golden hour is
Golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, when the sun is low in the sky. The light passes through more atmosphere, which makes it warmer in color and, usually, softer and more directional than midday sun.
It is not always exactly an hour. Its length depends on your latitude and the time of year, and the quality of the light changes continuously through it. Think of it as a window rather than a fixed clock time.
Why it works for portraits
- Flattering skin tones: warm light tends to look pleasant on skin.
- Directional light: low sun lets you add shape with side light or an edge with backlight.
- Comfort: subjects are less likely to squint than under high midday sun.
- Longer shadows and depth: the low angle adds texture to scenes, a quality landscape photographers also chase (see lighting in landscape photography).
It is not the only good light for portraits, and overcast or open shade can be just as useful, but golden hour is popular for good reason. For other times of day, see the best time of day to take photos.
Planning your session
- Check the times. Sunrise and sunset times are available in weather apps, and apps like PhotoPills or The Photographer’s Ephemeris show where the sun will be.
- Arrive early. Light changes quickly. Scout your spot and test exposure before the best light arrives.
- Know where the sun sets. A location with open sky in the direction of the sun gives you backlight options.
- Evening or morning? Evening light is often described as warmer, and morning light as cooler and cleaner. Morning can also be quieter, with fewer people.
- Have a plan B. Clouds or a tall horizon can cut the light early. Open shade nearby is a good fallback.
Three ways to place the sun
Front light
The sun is behind you, lighting the face directly. It is simple and bright, but subjects may squint. Have them look slightly away, then toward you on a cue.
Side light
The sun comes from one side. It sculpts the face and works well for more dimensional portraits. Use a reflector or light surface to open up the shadow side if needed.
Backlight
The sun is behind the subject. This creates a glowing edge on hair and shoulders. Our backlit portrait photography guide goes deeper on exposure and flare. Expose for the face, since the camera may otherwise underexpose the subject. Use a reflector, or position the subject so a bright surface bounces light onto their face.
Camera settings
Treat these as starting points:
- Aperture: f/1.8 to f/2.8 for soft backgrounds, f/4 or smaller if you need more depth of field, for example with groups.
- ISO: keep it low while the light is bright and raise it as light falls.
- Shutter speed: fast enough to freeze movement; slow it down only on purpose.
- Metering: spot or center-weighted metering on the face is often more reliable than evaluative when backlit. Check your preview and adjust exposure compensation.
- Format: RAW gives flexibility for white balance and highlights.
- White balance: auto is usually fine in RAW; avoid forcing it so cool that you lose the warmth.
Flare and backlight tips
A lens hood helps control unwanted flare. Sometimes flare looks pleasing and sometimes it washes out contrast, so try shifting your position or partly blocking the sun with the subject’s head. If the sky is blown out, decide whether that is acceptable or whether to lower exposure and lift the face in editing.
What to wear
Solid, mid-tone or earthy colors usually sit well with warm light. Very bright whites can lose detail, and strong colors that clash with the surroundings may distract. If you are unsure, ask clients to bring two options and test one. For more, see what to wear for a professional photo.
Can I fake golden hour?
You can add warmth in editing, and a gold reflector can add a warm bounce. These can help, but the angle of low sun is hard to reproduce at midday. If you need to shoot at a different time, shade or overcast conditions may give better results than trying to mimic it. See overcast and cloudy day photography.
Common mistakes
- Arriving too late and missing the best light.
- Underexposing faces when shooting into the sun.
- Over-editing warmth until skin looks orange.
- Ignoring the background; a low sun can light a messy scene as well as a good one.
Frequently asked questions
Is golden hour good for portraits?
For many photographers, yes, because the light is warm and directional. It is a good option rather than a requirement.
How long does golden hour last?
It varies with season and location, often from roughly half an hour to an hour or more. Use an app for your exact location.
How do I make photos look like golden hour?
Add warmth carefully in editing, use a warm reflector, and choose a low-angle backlight if possible. Results will vary.
What colors look good in golden hour photos?
Earth tones, soft neutrals and muted colors tend to work well. Test on location.
For a broader overview of daylight techniques, return to the natural light portrait guide.