How to Read Light in Landscape Photography
light landscape technique
Light is the foundation of photography. You can have the most expensive gear and perfect composition, but without good light the photo will be flat.
Golden Hour
The first and last 60 minutes of sunlight above the horizon give warm, long shadows and a soft glow. A time when even an ordinary landscape looks like a painting.
Blue Hour
Just before sunrise and after sunset, the sky turns a deep blue. The perfect time for city and architecture photography.
Direction of Light
- Front light – flat, no texture, good for portraits
- Side light – reveals texture and depth
- Back light – dramatic, silhouettes, lens flare
The best landscape photos rarely happen at noon. Plan to go out before dawn or 2 hours before sunset.