Cheat sheet · People

Camera settings for wedding ceremonies

Silent shutter, fast primes and high ISO handle dim churches without flash.

ModeManual with Auto ISO
Aperturef/1.8–f/2.8
Shutter1/200 s (people), 1/100 s (static)
ISO800–6400
DriveSilent
FormatRAW, dual cards
Quick start: Silent shutter, fast primes and high ISO handle dim churches without flash.

Starting exposures#

Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 6. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.

ApertureISO 100ISO 400ISO 1600ISO 6400
f/1.41/30 s1/125 s1/500 s1/2000 s
f/2.81/8 s1/30 s1/125 s1/500 s
f/5.60.5 s1/8 s1/30 s1/125 s
f/81 s1/4 s1/15 s1/60 s
f/112 s0.5 s1/8 s1/30 s

Step by step#

  1. Ask the officiant about rules.
  2. Cover key moments: entrance, vows, rings, kiss, exit.
  3. Write to two cards.

Gear checklist#

  • Two bodies
  • 24–70 f/2.8 and 70–200 f/2.8
  • 35/85 mm primes
  • Spare batteries & cards

Pro tips#

  • Mixed lighting: set a custom WB or fix in RAW.

Common mistakes#

  • Flash during vows (often banned).
Events & partiesBounce flash off the ceiling for natural-looking light and freeze moments.… Indoor portraits with window lightA large window is a giant softbox — turn the subject toward it and expose for the face.…

Frequently asked questions#

What are the best camera settings for wedding ceremonies?

Aperture: f/1.8–f/2.8 · Shutter: 1/200 s (people), 1/100 s (static) · ISO: 800–6400. Silent shutter, fast primes and high ISO handle dim churches without flash.

What gear do I need for wedding ceremonies?

Two bodies, 24–70 f/2.8 and 70–200 f/2.8, 35/85 mm primes, Spare batteries & cards.

Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources