The golden hour—that magical moment shortly after sunrise or just before sunset, when the light is soft, warm, and instantly gives your photos a beautiful atmosphere. But what if you miss the perfect timing? No problem. With Zoner Studio, you can recreate the effect even afterward.

There are different types of natural outdoor light, which are influenced by the time and weather conditions. Some lighting conditions are easier, others more difficult, and each brings its own challenges but also potential for photography.

In our video we’ll be looking straight at a shoot with our ambassador Zdeňka Vrátná—better known as Foto Povolen. We set out on a photographic journey and recorded it all so that you can be there for it too. In our video, you’ll also find tips on cosplay and portrait photography (and more), as well as several backstage shots. Watch our video, browse our photo set, and learn something new!

Every season has a different photographic potential and is ruled by different forces. Autumn has gorgeous colors, winter brings snow, in springtime everything’s blooming, and summer has its strong golden hour. Every year brings opportunities that only last for a few weeks, but when you use them well, you can get great photos—so you have something to look forward to year-round. Let’s explore the what’s, the how’s, and the potential of summer photography.

The days are quickly getting shorter, and so even for us night owls, it’s worth heading into the streets with our cameras just before dawn. That’s because the morningtime city offers a feast for the eyes. In the empty and half-empty streets filled with still-waking light, pictures are a joy to find.

Birds are always frequent companions on nature hikes. And I’m sure you’ve felt an itch to photograph them before. But that’s not as easy as it might at first sound. You need a little practice and a little skill and speed.

Taking pictures in the Golden Hour is one of the most fundamental and simplest recommendations for taking better pictures. The Golden Hour is actually not one, but two hours daily: after the sunrise, and before sunset. During these hours, the light is softer, the shadows are longer, and the light temperature is significantly warmer. Read on for a few tips on why and how these everyday, but still extraordinary, time periods can be used for photography.