Golden Hour for Street Photography
What’s popping people, it’s Dante, and today we’re talking about the golden hour—my favorite time of day to photograph. If you’re serious about street photography, this is the time to get out there. Almost all of my most successful images were made during this magical window.
Why Golden Hour is the Best
Golden hour typically falls between 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. in the summer here in Philadelphia. The light during this time is soft, warm, and low, creating long shadows and a beautiful glow that transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary.
“Golden hour is when the sun kisses the skin and every shadow becomes part of the story.”
High Success Rate for Abstracts
If you love playing with light and shadow, golden hour is your playground. On any corner where light filters through, you can create stunning abstract compositions. The contrast between light and shadow gives your photos a dynamic edge that’s hard to achieve during other times of the day.
“You can pretty much play in the light and fish for images anywhere. It’s pure fun.”
Boost Your Exposure Compensation
When shooting during golden hour, you’ll often find yourself shooting directly into the sun or with the sun behind you. Depending on the direction of the light, you might need to tweak your settings.
- Facing the Sun: Boost your exposure compensation to around +2 to balance the harsh backlight.
- Sun Behind You: Enjoy the natural glow on your subjects, which makes for flattering skin tones and soft shadows.
Market Street Vibes
If you’re in Philadelphia, head to Market Street during golden hour. On Wednesdays, with events like Center City Sips, the streets are packed with people heading to bars or wrapping up their day. It’s the perfect spot to capture candid moments and street life at its liveliest.
“I walk back and forth, tanning my body and snapping photos. It’s an unbeatable combo—sun, fun, and photography.”
Why It’s Superior
Sure, you can shoot at any time of day, but golden hour reigns supreme. Harsh midday light can cast unflattering shadows on faces and make scenes feel flat. Golden hour, on the other hand, provides the perfect balance of light and shadow, adding depth and warmth to your photos.
“Morning or evening, golden hour has no competition. This is the superior time to photograph, hands down.”
Get Out and Play
So, grab your camera and hit the streets during golden hour. Whether you’re chasing light, capturing shadows, or simply enjoying the energy of the city, this time of day guarantees memorable results.
“Walk along and sing your song. Follow the beat of the street, enjoy the heat, and play in the light—everything will be all right.”
Golden hour is a gift for street photographers. Don’t waste it—get out there, and let the light guide you.