April 2, 2026
It’s special when you find yourself in the right place at the right time. The “Golden “ or “magic” hour is often that for photographers and for those that are blown away by the beauty that is experienced during that time. The few minutes around sunrise, and then yet again just before and shortly after sunset is known as the golden hour.
Recently, a trip found us in the air chasing the sunset. Upon landing the sun was just setting and it created some interesting shots reminding me of how the angle of the light changes the pictures taken during what is known as the golden hour.
During the rest of the day, the shining sun can create situations where the lighting is very harsh. But during the golden hours, the light softens the subjects and creates a warm look. The natural light is easier to work with because the light is more even than at midday. The low angle nearer the horizon creates a softer look with the golden hue.
During these times, the constant changing of the light creates ever changing scenes and scenarios and there is a greater opportunity for creative effects to be used. Backlighting, silhouettes, and side lighting can bring interest to the photos. Some people plan carefully for specific pictures during this time, but for others, the spontaneity of the moment creates magical shots.
For this trip, every evening brought different opportunities. Initially, the interest was the sunset and ever changing ground and sky in the plane and on the ground; the second day found us at the Botanical Garden of the Desert, which softened even the most prickly cactus, and lastly, golden hour was observed at a baseball game complete with palm trees and a pink and orange sky. Each different, each unique, and mesmerizing.
But you don’t have to be on vacation to experience this phenomenon – it could occur on your way to work, or as you travel home and it may not always be welcomed especially when the rising or setting sun is directly in your line of view. Embrace and Enjoy the beauty of this magical time when it appears.
Starla Willis, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2011
DALLAS GARDEN BUZZ 