Solar & Shadow Terminology
Definitions of key terms used in shadow analysis, solar planning, and photography.
Core Concepts
Shadow Analysis
The study of how shadows cast by buildings, trees, and terrain change throughout the day and year based on sun position.
Learn morePhotography
Golden Hour
The period shortly after sunrise and before sunset when the sun is 0-6 degrees above the horizon, creating warm, soft light ideal for photography.
Learn moreBlue Hour
The period when the sun is 4-8 degrees below the horizon, creating a blue twilight. Occurs just before sunrise and after sunset.
Sun Position
Sun Azimuth
The compass direction of the sun, measured in degrees from north (0°/360°). East is 90°, south is 180°, and west is 270°.
Sun Altitude
The angle of the sun above the horizon, ranging from 0° at sunrise/sunset to 90° when directly overhead.
Solar Noon
The moment when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky for a given location and day. This is when shadows are shortest.
Day Length
The duration of time from sunrise to sunset. Varies by latitude and season, from 0 hours (polar night) to 24 hours (midnight sun).
Shadow Metrics
Shadow Multiplier
The ratio of shadow length to object height. A multiplier of 2x means shadows are twice as long as the object is tall.
Seasons
Summer Solstice
The day with the longest daylight hours and highest noon sun altitude. June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, December 21 in the Southern.
Winter Solstice
The day with the shortest daylight hours and lowest noon sun altitude. December 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, June 21 in the Southern.
Equinox
Days when day and night are approximately equal length worldwide. Occurs around March 20 (spring) and September 22 (autumn).
Architecture
Shadow Impact Study
A formal analysis showing how a proposed building will cast shadows on surrounding properties. Often required for building permits.
See These Concepts in Action
Use SunMap to visualize sun position, shadow patterns, and golden hour for any location.
Open SunMap