Recommended settings#
ModeManual / Bulb
Aperturef/8–f/11
Shutter30 s – 4 minwith ND
ISOBase
Filter6–15 stop ND
FocusManual, set before fitting ND
White balanceFixed (Daylight)Correct ND colour cast in RAW
Quick start: A 10-stop ND turns 1/60 s into 16 s: smooth seas, streaking clouds and empty streets.
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#
- Compose and focus without the filter.
- Meter without the filter, then compute the ND time.
- Fit the filter, switch to manual focus, shoot.
Gear checklist#
- Tripod
- Strong ND filter
- Remote
- Viewfinder cover (DSLR)
Pro tips#
- Cloudy, windy days give the most dramatic cloud streaks.
Common mistakes#
- Forgetting to cover the optical viewfinder — light leaks.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for daytime long exposure?
Aperture: f/8–f/11 · Shutter: 30 s – 4 min · ISO: Base. A 10-stop ND turns 1/60 s into 16 s: smooth seas, streaking clouds and empty streets.
What gear do I need for daytime long exposure?
Tripod, Strong ND filter, Remote, Viewfinder cover (DSLR).
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources