Recommended settings#
ModeManual or Aperture priority
Aperturef/8–f/11
ISO100
White balanceDaylight
Bracketing±2 EV
Quick start: Arrive in the dark: the best colour often happens 20–30 minutes before the sun appears.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 11. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright |
| f/5.6 | 1/60 s | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s |
| f/8 | 1/30 s | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s |
| f/11 | 1/15 s | 1/60 s | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s |
Step by step#
- Check blue-hour start time.
- Set up and compose in the dark.
- Shoot through blue hour into golden hour.
Gear checklist#
- Tripod
- Head torch
- ND grad
Pro tips#
- Mist and fog often form over water at dawn.
Common mistakes#
- Arriving at the published sunrise time — the show is over.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for sunrise photography?
Aperture: f/8–f/11 · ISO: 100. Arrive in the dark: the best colour often happens 20–30 minutes before the sun appears.
What gear do I need for sunrise photography?
Tripod, Head torch, ND grad.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources