What is the golden hour?

The golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. This calculator uses the PhotoPills definition, where the sun sits between 4 degrees below and 6 degrees above the horizon (-4° to +6° elevation). The light is warm, soft and directional, creating long shadows and a flattering quality ideal for portraits and landscapes.

What is the blue hour?

The blue hour occurs when the sun is between 4 and 6 degrees below the horizon (-6° to -4° elevation, the PhotoPills definition). The sky takes on a deep blue hue with no direct sunlight. It is ideal for cityscapes, twilight scenes and creating a moody atmosphere.

How long does the golden hour last?

Despite the name, the golden hour varies in duration. Near the equator it can be as short as 20-30 minutes. At higher latitudes (like the UK at 51-55 degrees), it can last over an hour. In summer it is shorter, in winter longer.

Which direction should I face during golden hour?

In the morning, face east or south-east to capture subjects front-lit or side-lit by the rising sun. In the evening, face west or south-west. For dramatic backlighting, face directly towards the sun.

PhotoCalcs

Golden Hour Calculator — Golden & Blue Hour Times

Calculate golden hour and blue hour times for any location and date.

Latitude

Positive = North, Negative = South

Longitude

Positive = East, Negative = West

DateLeave blank to use today’s date.

How We Calculate This

Calculation Method

Solar declination calculated from day of year
Hour angle found for sun elevation thresholds (-6°, -4°, 0°, 6°)
Golden hour = sun between -4° and +6° elevation (PhotoPills definition)
Blue hour = sun between -6° and -4° elevation (PhotoPills definition)
Times are in UTC. Adjust for your local timezone.

Elevation bands follow PhotoPills (golden hour -4° to +6°, blue hour -6° to -4°). Sunrise and sunset use the standard -0.833° geometric centre. This is a fast NOAA-style approximation; for critical planning verify against a dedicated ephemeris.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard optical and photographic formulas. Results may vary with specific equipment.