aranyóra

Aranyóra is a Hungarian term that literally translates to "golden hour." In photography and videography, it refers to the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, during which daylight is redder and softer than when the sun is higher in the sky. This is because the sunlight travels through more of the atmosphere when the sun is low on the horizon, scattering away the blue light and leaving the longer, redder wavelengths to reach the observer.

The aranyóra is highly sought after by visual artists for its unique lighting qualities. The low angle of the sun creates long shadows, adds a warm, golden hue to the landscape, and can produce a flattering, soft light that is often considered ideal for portraiture and scenic shots. The intensity of the light is also generally lower than midday, which can help to avoid harsh contrasts and blown-out highlights.

The exact timing and duration of the aranyóra vary depending on geographical location, time of year, and weather conditions. While often associated with a warm, orange glow, the light can also appear pink, purple, or even a deep red depending on atmospheric particles and the presence of clouds. Many photographers plan their shoots specifically around these times to capture the distinctive atmospheric effects and color palettes that the aranyóra provides.