The golden hour: the first and last hour of sunlight during the day, when a specific photographic effect is achieved due to the quality of light. Softer light, longer shadows, and warm hues soak through the images captured.

In scientific terms, the closer the sun is to the horizon, the more atmosphere it must travel through, diffusing a larger portion of its light.

Surfer Magazine staff photographer Chris Burkard is a master of this domain. Brilliant shots from around the globe in the fading or rising sunlight are his mainstay. Here he shares 13 of his favorite golden moments. Click on the image below to view the full gallery.