Scientific Definition
Blue hour occurs when the sun is between 4° and 6° below the horizon, typically during civil twilight. The indirect sunlight takes on a blue hue due to the scattering of shorter wavelengths and the absence of direct sunlight.
Photographic Characteristics
- Cool, moody blue tones
- Balanced ambient light and artificial lights
- Great for cityscapes, architecture, and atmospheric scenes
Timeframe
Occurs just before sunrise and just after sunset, lasting about 20–40 minutes.
📸 Photo Tips
- Use a tripod for long exposures.
- Capture reflections in water for dramatic effect.
- Experiment with white balance to control blue tones.