Blue hour is a magical time of day that occurs twice a day, just before sunrise and just after sunset. It is a time when the sky takes on a beautiful blue hue, and the landscape is bathed in a soft, diffused light. Many photographers consider blue hour to be the best time to capture stunning images.
Australia is a vast country with multiple time zones, so the exact time of blue hour will vary depending on your location within the country. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you determine when blue hour will occur in Australia.
What causes blue hour?
Blue hour occurs when the sun is below the horizon, but its rays still reach the upper layers of the atmosphere. During this time, the shorter blue wavelengths of light are scattered more than the longer red wavelengths, creating the blue hue in the sky.
When does blue hour occur?
Blue hour generally lasts for about 20 to 30 minutes, and its exact timing depends on various factors such as the time of year, weather conditions, and your latitude. In Australia, blue hour typically occurs:
- In the morning: Blue hour begins around 20 to 30 minutes before sunrise and ends just after the sun rises.
- In the evening: Blue hour starts just before the sun sets and lasts for around 20 to 30 minutes after sunset.
Factors that can affect the timing of blue hour
The timing of blue hour can be influenced by several factors:
- Latitude: The closer you are to the equator, the shorter the duration of blue hour.
- Time of year: Blue hour can vary in duration throughout the year, with shorter blue hours during the summer months and longer blue hours during the winter months.
- Weather conditions: Cloud cover can affect the intensity and duration of blue hour. Clear skies generally provide the best conditions for capturing the true beauty of blue hour.
Blue hour photography tips
If you’re planning to photograph during blue hour in Australia, here are some tips to help you capture stunning images:
- Plan ahead: Check the sunrise and sunset times for your location and arrive early to set up your equipment.
- Use a tripod: Blue hour requires longer exposure times, so a stable tripod is essential to avoid blurry images.
- Experiment with different exposures: Blue hour is a great time to try different exposure settings and capture the perfect balance between the natural light and the artificial lights that may be present.
- Keep an eye on the weather: Clear skies with a few scattered clouds can add depth and interest to your blue hour photos.
- Don’t forget the foreground: Incorporate interesting foreground elements to add depth and context to your images.
Remember, the exact timing of blue hour in Australia will vary depending on your location, so be sure to check the local sunrise and sunset times for the most accurate information. Use the tips above to make the most of this magical time of day and capture stunning blue hour images in Australia!