# Golden Hour > ## Excerpt > A conversational AI system that listens, learns, and challenges --- What is the golden hour in regards to photography? The golden hour in photography refers to the period of time shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sunlight is softer and warmer in color, creating a beautiful and warm glow. This time of day is also sometimes referred to as the magic hour or the sweet light. The exact duration of the golden hour varies depending on your location and the time of year, but it typically lasts for about an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset. During this time, the sun is low on the horizon, which means that the light has to travel through more of the Earth's atmosphere before it reaches the ground. This causes the light to be diffused and scattered, creating softer shadows and a warm, golden color cast. The golden hour is a popular time for photographers to shoot outdoor portraits, landscapes, and other types of photography because the light can enhance the colors and add depth and texture to the image. It is important to note that the light can change quickly during the golden hour, so photographers often have to work quickly to capture the perfect shot.