PHOTOPIA

Golden hour has always felt like a gift from nature—a brief window where everything is bathed in warm, golden light, transforming even the most ordinary scenes into something extraordinary. It’s my favorite time to shoot, but it’s also the most challenging. Sunsets don’t wait for anyone; you have to be quick, prepared, and in the right place at the right time.b

One of my most memorable sunset chases happened during a solo trip to the hills. I had spent the day hiking, my camera slung over my shoulder, waiting for the perfect moment. As the sun began to set, I found a spot overlooking a valley. The clouds were thick, and I worried the sunset would be hidden. But just as the sun reached the horizon, the clouds parted, revealing a sky painted in shades of orange, pink, and purple.

I clicked furiously, trying to capture the beauty in front of me, but I also forced myself to pause and just take it in. It reminded me that while photography is about preserving moments, it’s equally important to experience them fully.

Sunset photography has taught me patience and gratitude. Each one is different—sometimes dramatic and fiery, other times soft and muted—but they’re always fleeting, reminding me of the beauty in impermanence.

I clicked furiously, trying to capture the beauty in front of me, but I also forced myself to pause and just take it in. It reminded me that while photography is about preserving moments, it’s equally important to experience them fully.

Sunset photography has taught me patience and gratitude. Each one is different—sometimes dramatic and fiery, other times soft and muted—but they’re always fleeting, reminding me of the beauty in impermanence.

Chasing Sunsets: The Magic Hour Diaries Copy

JOURNAL