Recommended settings#
ModeAperture priority, −0.7 EVOr manual
Aperturef/8–f/11
ShutterAs metered
ISO100
White balanceDaylight or CloudyAuto WB neutralises the warmth
MeteringSpot on bright sky next to sun
Bracketing±2 EV
Quick start: Expose for the sky, protect highlights and keep shooting 20 minutes after the sun dips for the afterglow.
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 exact sunset and golden-hour times for your location.
- Compose with silhouettes or reflections.
- Keep shooting into blue hour.
Gear checklist#
- Tripod
- Graduated ND filter
- Lens hood
Pro tips#
- Clouds at mid-height catch the best colour.
- Use a telephoto to make the sun look larger.
Common mistakes#
- Setting auto white balance, which kills the warm tones.
- Leaving before the afterglow.
Related guides#
Sunrise photographyArrive in the dark: the best colour often happens 20–30 minutes before the sun appears.…
Golden hour portraitsBacklight with the low sun for glowing hair light, then fill the face with a reflector.…
SilhouettesExpose for the bright sky so the subject goes black; keep shapes clean.…
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for sunset photography?
Aperture: f/8–f/11 · Shutter: As metered · ISO: 100. Expose for the sky, protect highlights and keep shooting 20 minutes after the sun dips for the afterglow.
What gear do I need for sunset photography?
Tripod, Graduated ND filter, Lens hood.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources