Simple Online Tools

Blue Hour Calculator

Calculate optimal blue hour and twilight times for stunning photography at any location

Photography Guide & Tips

What is Blue Hour?

The blue hour occurs twice daily during civil and nautical twilight when the sun is between 4-8 degrees below the horizon. The sky takes on a rich, deep blue color that provides perfect ambient lighting for photography.

Best Blue Hour Shots:

  • Cityscapes with illuminated buildings
  • Landscapes with dramatic sky
  • Architecture with artificial lighting
  • Portraits with soft, even lighting
  • Long exposure water and clouds

Camera Settings

Recommended Settings:

  • • ISO: 100-800 (keep as low as possible)
  • • Aperture: f/8-f/11 for landscapes
  • • Shutter: Use tripod for stability
  • • Focus: Manual focus or single-point AF
  • • White Balance: Daylight or custom

Pro Tips:

  • • Arrive 30 minutes before blue hour
  • • Use graduated ND filters for balance
  • • Bracket exposures for HDR
  • • Check weather for clear skies

Twilight Phases Explained:

Civil Twilight: Sun 0-6° below horizon. Bright blue sky, artificial lights start appearing.
Nautical Twilight: Sun 6-12° below horizon. Deep blue sky, optimal blue hour photography.
Astronomical Twilight: Sun 12-18° below horizon. Dark sky begins, stars become visible.