Evening Golden Hour
6:28 PM
Sunrise
4:32 AM
Sunset
7:28 PM
Quick: NYC 40.7, LA 34, London 51.5, Tokyo 35.7, Sydney -33.9
Golden Hour Windows
Morning
4:32 AM–5:32 AM
Evening
6:28 PM–7:28 PM
Daylight Duration
14h 55m
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Summer solstice at 40.7°N gives longest day. Solar declination = +23.45°. Golden hour starts about 30–40 minutes before sunset.
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Southern hemisphere summer. Similar golden hour duration to Northern equivalent latitude.
Golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset when sunlight is warm, soft, and directional (sun 0–6° above horizon). It typically lasts 20–40 minutes depending on latitude and season. The light creates long shadows and a warm golden tone ideal for portraits and landscapes.
| Light Period | Sun Position | Duration | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Hour | -6° to -4° | 20–30 min | Cool, blue tones |
| Golden Hour | 0° to 6° | 20–40 min | Warm, directional |
| Midday | 60°–90° | 4–6 hours | Harsh, flat |
Blue hour occurs when the sun is 4–6 degrees below the horizon, just before sunrise and after sunset. The sky takes on a deep blue tone with pink/orange near the horizon. It lasts about 20–30 minutes and is prized for cityscapes and seascapes.
Higher latitudes get longer golden hours because the sun crosses the horizon at a shallower angle. At 60°N (Scandinavia) in summer, golden hour can last over an hour. Near the equator (0°), it may last only 20 minutes year-round.
This calculator uses simplified solar position formulas accurate to about ±5–10 minutes. It does not account for longitude (assumes solar noon = 12:00), elevation, atmospheric refraction, or timezone offset. For precise times, use a dedicated astronomy app with your exact GPS coordinates.
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Last Updated: Mar 26, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.