Recommended settings#
ApertureWide openBlurs fences
Shutter1/500 s
FocusManual / eye AF
FlashOff
Quick start: Press a rubber lens hood against the glass to kill reflections; shoot wide open.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 10. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s |
| f/5.6 | 1/30 s | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s |
| f/8 | 1/15 s | 1/60 s | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s |
| f/11 | 1/8 s | 1/30 s | 1/125 s | 1/500 s |
Step by step#
- Put the lens flat against the glass.
- For fences, get close and shoot wide open.
Gear checklist#
- Rubber lens hood
- Telephoto
Pro tips#
- Wait for natural-looking backgrounds.
Common mistakes#
- Flash reflections.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for zoo through glass?
Aperture: Wide open · Shutter: 1/500 s. Press a rubber lens hood against the glass to kill reflections; shoot wide open.
What gear do I need for zoo through glass?
Rubber lens hood, Telephoto.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources