How To Perfect A Golden Hour Photoshoot From Home ‘Cos We Love A Natural Filter

golden hour

If you’re one of the millions of Aussies currently cooped up inside your home because of the never-ending global pandemic, then you’ve probably forgotten what it feels like to look bloody sensational in a summery Insta pic.

Let’s face it. Going anywhere except your balcony or backyard to take a #selfie is almost obsolete, but what if I told you, I had the perfect hack to up your Insta game from those very places? Sans TikTok hack.

It’s called golden hour baby and the best bit of all? You can do it within the confines of a 5km radius or even your own home — without getting all dolled up!

Golden hour is that ~magical~ time shortly after sunrise or before sunset and gives you that sun-kissed glow without a filter.

If you’re aiming for a sunset photoshoot, I do urge you to get into the vibe while sipping on some Bombay Sapphire Sunset. If you love a gin and tonic, try mixing up a Bombay Sunset and tonic or get a bit fancy and make yo’self a Bombay Sunset negroni (recipe below). Not only will it give you inspo to create some truly stellar content, but you’ll be feeling like it’s summer in no time.

To make the most of golden hour, there are seven easy peasy steps to creating the look that will truly be the envy of your followers.

1. Choose the right location

To create the best pic, we all know that location is errythang, so find a location that takes advantage of the light. Somewhere in your background, next to a sun-filled window or on your tiny balcony, where anything is possible.

2. Use a phone holder

No need to beg your flattie, mum or SO to take the pic for you — grab a phone holder and get cracking. The best pics come from stillness, so avoid camera shake. Turn it to selfie mode (like you even need to change it…) and start snapping.

3. Use a timer, remote or take pics in burst

The quicker your phone or camera speed, the better the outcome. Plus, you can take plenty and choose which looks best. If you’re using an SLR, just make sure you use a high shutter speed.

4. Take advantage of the low sun

Using low sun means that the harsh brightness of the largest star in the universe won’t be too bright and wash you out. Low sunlight will actually give you that warm and golden glow.

5. Use portrait mode or HDR on a camera

The world became right again when the iPhone allowed you to take selfies with portrait mode on. You have not lived until you have used this feature. If you have an SLR camera, ensure it’s on HDR. You will thank me later.

6. Shoot reflections

If you can, try to capture reflections of the orange coloured sky and other objects. It means the light will hit you at juuuust the right point.

7. Use backlighting or have the sun streaming on your face

Unlike 12pm on a spectacular sunny day, use the golden hour to light yourself up from behind. Not only will it give you a stunning orange aura but your pics will be so artistique that your friends will beg you for your trick. 

However, if you’re looking to give off that, “I just came off Bondi Beach glow”, then sitting with the sun streaming onto your face is where it’s at.

There’s even an entire playlist designed to make you feel like you’re glowing to play during the snapping session.

You’re welcome.

Pls remember to always drink responsibly, and be 18+.

More Stuff From PEDESTRIAN.TV