Recommended settings#
Shutter1/1000 s+Vibration
Aperturef/5.6–f/8
ISOAuto
FocusInfinity / AF
Quick start: Lens close to the window, fast shutter, and a dark jacket behind to block reflections.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 15. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | too bright | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/5.6 | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright |
| f/8 | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright |
| f/11 | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright |
Step by step#
- Sit away from the wing and engine exhaust.
- Hold lens close but not touching the window.
- Shoot at sunrise/sunset for colour.
Gear checklist#
- Short zoom
- Dark cloth
Pro tips#
- Window scratches show at wide angles.
Common mistakes#
- Touching the window (vibration).
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for through an airplane window?
Aperture: f/5.6–f/8 · Shutter: 1/1000 s+ · ISO: Auto. Lens close to the window, fast shutter, and a dark jacket behind to block reflections.
What gear do I need for through an airplane window?
Short zoom, Dark cloth.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources