Recommended settings#
ModeManual
Aperturef/8
Shutter1–30 s
ISO100
White balance4000–5000 K
Quick start: The 20–40 minutes when the sun is 4–6° below the horizon: balanced skies and city lights.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 8. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s |
| f/2.8 | 1/30 s | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s |
| f/5.6 | 1/8 s | 1/30 s | 1/125 s | 1/500 s |
| f/8 | 1/4 s | 1/15 s | 1/60 s | 1/250 s |
| f/11 | 0.5 s | 1/8 s | 1/30 s | 1/125 s |
Step by step#
- Use the golden hour calculator for exact times.
- Compose before it starts.
- Shoot continuously — the sky changes every minute.
Gear checklist#
- Tripod
- Remote
Pro tips#
- Morning blue hour is quieter for city shots.
Common mistakes#
- Arriving after it ends.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for blue hour?
Aperture: f/8 · Shutter: 1–30 s · ISO: 100. The 20–40 minutes when the sun is 4–6° below the horizon: balanced skies and city lights.
What gear do I need for blue hour?
Tripod, Remote.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources