Recommended settings#
ModeAperture priority or Manual
Aperturef/8–f/11f/5.6–f/8 on MFT
ShutterAs meteredTripod lets it go long
ISOBase (64–200)
FocusHyperfocal / ⅓ into scene
MeteringEvaluative, check histogram
FormatRAW
Quick start: Maximise depth of field and dynamic range: low ISO, f/8–f/11, a tripod and focus near the hyperfocal distance.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 14. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | 1/8000 s | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright | too bright |
| f/5.6 | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright |
| f/8 | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright |
| f/11 | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s |
Step by step#
- Scout at midday, return at golden hour.
- Compose with a strong foreground.
- Focus at the hyperfocal distance or focus-stack.
- Bracket if the sky is much brighter than the land.
Gear checklist#
- Tripod
- Polariser
- ND grad or ND filters
- Wide-angle zoom
Pro tips#
- A polariser deepens skies and removes glare from water and foliage.
- Overcast days suit forests and waterfalls.
Common mistakes#
- Stopping down to f/22 — diffraction softens everything.
- Shooting only at eye level.
Related guides#
Sunset photographyExpose for the sky, protect highlights and keep shooting 20 minutes after the sun dips for…
Silky waterfallsShutter speeds of 1/4–2 s give silky water while keeping texture; overcast light helps.…
Daytime long exposureA 10-stop ND turns 1/60 s into 16 s: smooth seas, streaking clouds and empty streets.…
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for landscape photography?
Aperture: f/8–f/11 · Shutter: As metered · ISO: Base (64–200). Maximise depth of field and dynamic range: low ISO, f/8–f/11, a tripod and focus near the hyperfocal distance.
What gear do I need for landscape photography?
Tripod, Polariser, ND grad or ND filters, Wide-angle zoom.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources