Recommended settings#
Aperturef/8–f/11
ISOBase
FocusHyperfocal
Lens16–35 mm or tilt-shift
Bracketing±2 EV interiors
Quick start: Keep verticals straight: level camera, tilt-shift or correct in post.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 13. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright |
| f/5.6 | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright |
| f/8 | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s |
| f/11 | 1/60 s | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s |
Step by step#
- Level the camera to keep verticals parallel.
- Shoot blue hour for lit buildings.
- Bracket for bright windows.
Gear checklist#
- Wide or tilt-shift lens
- Tripod
- Level
Pro tips#
- Overcast days flatter glass facades.
Common mistakes#
- Converging verticals from tilting the camera.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for architecture?
Aperture: f/8–f/11 · ISO: Base. Keep verticals straight: level camera, tilt-shift or correct in post.
What gear do I need for architecture?
Wide or tilt-shift lens, Tripod, Level.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources