A magical sunset can take your breath away. Some photographers are able to capture and even enhance the beauty of a sunset through HDR photography and tone mapping techniques. Here we take a look at some exceptional shots taken around the world just as the sun reached the horizon.
Fire in the Sky
(images via: hdrdesktop, smugmug, felloweskimo)
As the day draws to a close and the sun bends to the horizon, its light has to travel further though the atmosphere to reach us. We gradually see less blue in the sky as it lights up with firey colors, as the shorter wavelengths no longer reach us and particles in the atmosphere scatter the fleeting sunlight.
Magical Painted Skies
(images via: vi.sualize.us, pbase, martovskiy)
Sunsets transform the sky into beautiful works of art, painted with amazing colors. These incredible shots were captured in Dubai, Denmark and Russia and demonstrate that while landscapes around the world may vary, beautiful sunsets are universal. Through tone mapping techniques, these photos were given more subtle brilliance than can be seen with the naked eye.
Nearly Twilight
(images via: chrismay, hdrdesktop, apollocreedtravels, ergyth, bgphotographyandvideo)
Twilight is that magical time of day when the sun dips below the horizon, yet for a few minutes we are still able to enjoy the fading light and colors of the sunset. All too soon, the show is over, darkness envelops the sky and the natural cycle of the day is complete. At or near twilight, photographers have a wonderful opportunity to capture amazing images.
The Blues
(images via: hdrimages, porre, envyo)
Photographers who are able to capture the fading sunlight as it paints the evening sky often enhance the photos using photo manipulation techniques. Through HDR photography or photo manipulation, vivid details of the pictures become spectacular. Cobalt blue is a rare color in sunset photography, but through HDR and tone mapping techniques it can come through in amazing ways.
Sundown at the Shore
(images via: aspektdev, mcsearcher)
For many people, beaches are some of the most relaxing and beautiful places on earth. We have a fascination with the mysteries of deep waters and a love for the scenery along coastlines around the world. Spectacular HDR sunset photographs can be taken when the sun dips low and looks as though it may plunge into the water. The intense colors and reflections on the water can make coastal sunsets truly breathtaking.
Serene Sunsets
(images via: fotothing, talkphotography, esharkdesign, fourthirds-user)
As the day draws to a close, we are sometimes lucky enough to be treated to a few minutes of quiet time to relax and enjoy the sunset. Taking in the beauty of the sky in the evenings can be very relaxing and a great way to unwind after a stressful day. Our internal body clocks respond to light, and as the sun goes down we are given the natural cue that bedtime is drawing near.

