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Sunrise, Sunset & Golden Hour Calculator

Plan your photography shoots and outdoor activities with accurate sunrise, sunset, and golden hour times for any location and date. Timing can make a tremendous difference in your photography, so plan for the right light.

Start typing a city name to see suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about sunrise, sunset and golden hour calculations for travel photography.

What is golden hour?

Golden hour refers to the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset when the sun is low in the sky, creating warm, soft, and diffused light. This is considered the best time for photography because the light is flattering and creates beautiful colors and shadows.

How accurate are these calculations?

Our calculator uses the SunriseSunset.io API, which provides highly accurate sunrise and sunset times based on astronomical calculations. The times are accurate to within a few minutes for most locations. Actual times may vary slightly due to local topography, atmospheric conditions, and time zone boundaries.

Why is timing important for travel photography?

The quality of light can make a tremendous difference in your photography. Golden hour provides soft, warm light that enhances colors and reduces harsh shadows. Planning your shoots around these times helps you capture more compelling and professional-looking travel photos.

Can I use this for planning outdoor activities?

Absolutely! Beyond photography, knowing sunrise and sunset times helps you plan hiking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities. You can ensure you have enough daylight for your adventures and avoid being caught in the dark.

How do I search for a location?

Simply start typing a city name and you'll see autocomplete suggestions. For best results, include the country name (e.g., "Paris, France" or "Tokyo, Japan"). The tool will automatically find the coordinates for you.

What's the difference between morning and evening golden hour?

Morning golden hour occurs right after sunrise when the light is fresh and often has a cooler tone. Evening golden hour happens before sunset and typically has warmer, more dramatic lighting. Both offer excellent photography conditions, but many photographers prefer the evening golden hour for its warmer tones.

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