What impact does the angle of the sun during the golden hour have on photography?

The angle of the sun during the golden hour, which occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset, contributes to softer, warmer lighting that greatly enhances the quality of photographs. This softer light reduces the harshness typically associated with midday sun, resulting in a more flattering glow. This quality of light is ideal for capturing detail in both highlights and shadows without overly intense contrasts, which can cause loss of detail or an unappealing effect in photographs.

During the golden hour, the sun's low position in the sky also creates longer shadows that add depth to the images, enriching the overall composition without the detriment of harsh lighting that can cast unflattering shadows. Photographers often take advantage of this time for portraits, landscapes, and various subjects to harness this beautiful, diffused light that brings out the colors and textures in a pleasing manner.