How do I find the best time for golden hour photography?

Use SunMap to see the sun angle at your shooting location. Golden hour typically occurs when the sun is 0-6 degrees above the horizon - use the time slider to find when shadows become long and warm.

Can I plan shadow direction for architectural photography?

Yes! SunMap shows real-time 3D shadows from buildings. Adjust the time to find when shadows create the most dramatic effect on your subject.

How do I know which direction light will come from?

SunMap displays the sun azimuth (compass direction) in real-time. Combined with the 3D shadow visualization, you can see exactly where light will fall on your scene.

SunMap Plan a Shoot

For Photographers & Cinematographers

Plan the Perfect Shot with
3D Light Tracking

Know exactly when golden hour hits a specific street or building. Visualize shadow direction before you arrive on location.

Find Golden Hour Browse Cities

Essential Tools for Photographers

Golden Hour Finder

See exactly when the sun is at the perfect low angle for warm, soft light.

Shadow Direction

Visualize how building shadows fall at any time. Perfect for architectural shots.

Any Location

Plan shoots anywhere in the world. See sun data for any street or landmark.

Using Shadows in Composition

Shadows are a powerful compositional element. Here's how to use them effectively.

Long Shadows (Morning/Evening)

When the sun is low, shadows stretch dramatically. Perfect for street photography, portraits with rim lighting, and creating depth in landscapes.

Best time: Within 2 hours of sunrise/sunset

Short Shadows (Midday)

Harsh overhead light creates minimal shadows. Challenging but great for graphic, high-contrast images and patterns on architecture.

Best for: Minimalist compositions, tropical locations

Side Light

When light comes from the side, it reveals texture and creates three-dimensionality. Essential for product, food, and architectural photography.

Use SunMap to find when light hits your subject from the side

Backlighting

Shooting towards the sun creates silhouettes, sun flares, and glowing edges. Plan the exact moment when sun aligns with your composition.

Check sun azimuth in SunMap for precise positioning

Photogenic Cities

Popular destinations for photographers. Check sun angles before your trip.

Paris

France

Longest day: 16.0h

Golden hour at 21:53

Tokyo

Japan

Longest day: 14.5h

Golden hour at 18:57

Rome

Italy

Longest day: 15.1h

Golden hour at 20:45

Barcelona

Spain

Longest day: 15.1h

Golden hour at 21:24

Sydney

Australia

Longest day: 14.3h

Golden hour at 20:02

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find golden hour for a specific location?

Navigate to your location in SunMap and use the time slider. Golden hour occurs when the sun altitude is between 0-6 degrees. Watch for long, warm shadows in the 3D view.

Can I see shadow direction for specific buildings?

Yes! SunMap renders 3D buildings with real-time shadows. Zoom in to see how specific structures cast shadows at any time of day or year.

How do I know light direction for a sunset shot?

SunMap shows the sun azimuth (compass direction). Set the time to sunset and note the direction - this tells you exactly where the sun will set on the horizon.

Ready to Capture Perfect Light?

Start planning your next shoot with precise sun position data.

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