Finding the Right Apps for Precise Sun Position and Angle Calculation for Outdoor Photography
When it comes to outdoor photography, capturing the perfect moment often depends on the precise position and angle of the sun. Fortunately, there are several apps available to help photographers plan their shoots with great accuracy. In this article, we explore some of the best options, including popular choices like The Photographer’s Ephemeris, PlanitPro, and PhotoPills.
The Photographer’s Ephemeris
The Photographer’s Ephemeris (TEP) is one of the most well-known apps in the photography community. It offers a comprehensive view of sun and moon positions for any given location and time. TEP is particularly popular among landscape photographers, who often need to coordinate their shoots with the sun’s position to create stunning images.
PlanitPro and PhotoPills
Besides TEP, two other applications have gained significant popularity: PlanitPro and PhotoPills. While TEP is highly regarded, these two apps offer advanced features and an easier user interface. PlanitPro, for example, is known for its rich functionality, while PhotoPills is favored for its user-friendly design.
PhotoPills: A User-Friendly Choice
Among the three, I find PhotoPills to be the most user-friendly. It not only provides sun and moon positions but also includes additional useful features such as the Milky Way, star trails, and more. The app also allows users to save shooting plans, making it an excellent tool for organizing and planning photography sessions.
Other Options for Planning Sun Position
For those who prefer desktop tools, Google Earth is an invaluable resource. By turning on the 3D terrain features and using the sun simulator, users can adjust the date and time sliders to align with their desired sun position. This app offers a rough approximation of what you will see in real life, provided the weather is favorable.
Google Earth for Desktop
On your desktop, Google Earth is an excellent choice for visualizing sun positions. Just enable the 3D terrain and the sun simulator. Adjust the date and time sliders to align with your desired sun position. For the most accurate view, lower the camera viewpoint as far as possible. Keep in mind that the weather must be favorable for the view to match your expectations.
Sunseeker for Mobile
When out and about, many photographers rely on mobile apps like Sunseeker for real-time sun position tracking. Sunseeker offers an augmented reality (AR) view through the camera, allowing you to overlay the sun’s path on a given day. It also shows an overhead view with an arc indicating sunlight direction throughout the day. This feature is particularly useful for setting up your shoot ahead of time.
The Photographer’s Ephemeris on the Go
Another popular app is The Photographer’s Ephemeris (TEP), but I find it somewhat complex. Nevertheless, it remains a valuable tool for outdoor photographers who need to plan their shoots with great specificity.
Conclusion
Selecting the right app for sun position and angle calculation is essential for outdoor photographers. Whether you prefer desktop tools like Google Earth or mobile apps like Sunseeker and PhotoPills, these apps offer valuable insights into the sun’s path. By using these tools, you can plan your outdoor photography sessions with greater confidence and ensure you capture the perfect light and shadow.