Recommended settings#
ModeManual
Aperturef/5.6–f/8
Shutter5–30 s at night / trigger by day
ISO100–400
FocusManual at infinity
Quick start: From a safe distance, use long exposures or a lightning trigger to catch strikes.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 3. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | 1/4 s | 1/15 s | 1/60 s | 1/250 s |
| f/2.8 | 1 s | 1/4 s | 1/15 s | 1/60 s |
| f/5.6 | 4 s | 1 s | 1/4 s | 1/15 s |
| f/8 | 8 s | 2 s | 0.5 s | 1/8 s |
| f/11 | 15 s | 4 s | 1 s | 1/4 s |
Step by step#
- Shoot from indoors or a car if the storm is within 10 km.
- Use continuous long exposures at night.
- By day use a trigger and 1/4 s.
Gear checklist#
- Tripod
- Lightning trigger (daytime)
- Remote
Pro tips#
- Storms 15–30 km away are safer and still photogenic.
Common mistakes#
- Standing in the open under the storm.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for lightning?
Aperture: f/5.6–f/8 · Shutter: 5–30 s at night / trigger by day · ISO: 100–400. From a safe distance, use long exposures or a lightning trigger to catch strikes.
What gear do I need for lightning?
Tripod, Lightning trigger (daytime), Remote.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources