There isn’t one “correct” aperture for each type of scene. Aperture is both an exposure setting and a creative choice because it changes depth of field.

General rule:

• Lower f-numbers (like f/1.4–f/2.8): let in more light and give a shallower depth of field, so backgrounds blur more.
• Higher f-numbers (like f/8, f/11, f/16): let in less light and give more depth of field, so more of the scene appears in focus.

Typical use:

• Indoors or in a bar: often use wider apertures such as f/1.4–f/2.8 because light is limited.
• Bright outdoor scenes: you can often use f/8 or higher, especially if you want more of the scene in focus.
• Landscapes/cityscapes: commonly use higher f-numbers when you want deeper focus.
• Street or park: choose based on whether you want subject separation (lower f-number) or more of the scene sharp (higher f-number).

At night, you’ll usually need wider apertures than in daytime unless you’re using a tripod or raising ISO.

If you want a wide aperture in bright light, filters such as a polarizer or neutral density filter can help reduce the light reaching the camera.