Magic Hour
Definition
Magic Hour (also called "Golden Hour") refers to the brief period of time shortly after sunrise or shortly before sunset when the sun is low on the horizon, producing a soft, warm, diffused light with long shadows. This quality of light is highly prized by cinematographers and photographers for its flattering, cinematic quality. Because magic hour lasts only 20-40 minutes, productions that plan to shoot during this time must be extremely well-prepared and efficient.
Contextual Usage
The DP briefs the crew before the final shot of the day: "We have a 30-minute window for the magic hour shot. Everything needs to be pre-lit and ready to go the moment the sun hits the right angle. I need everyone in position and ready to shoot in 10 minutes."
About this section
Production — or "principal photography" — is the phase in which the film or video is actually shot. It is the most visible and, typically, the most expensive phase of the entire process. Every day on ...
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