What camera settings should I use to photograph lightning with a Nikon D3100?
Asked 6/9/2011
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2 answers
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I’m trying to photograph a lightning storm with a Nikon D3100 and need a starting point for exposure settings. I first tried about 25 seconds at f/5.3, but I’m not sure if that’s too much or too little. What should I use for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO when shooting lightning?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
1
There isn't one ideal setting, it all depends on the ambient lighting. You'll need to do a couple of sample shots to see how the shots are coming out and adjust accordingly. You might as well set your ISO to 200 to begin with though, the less noise the better.
Originally by user3205. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user3205
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
There isn’t one perfect lightning setting, because the right exposure depends heavily on the ambient light in the scene. A good approach is to take a few test shots, review the results, and adjust from there.
As a starting point, keep ISO low—around ISO 200 is a sensible choice—since lower ISO helps reduce noise. Then adjust shutter speed and aperture based on how bright the sky and surroundings are. Your 25-second exposure at f/5.3 may work in some conditions, but it could be too bright or too dark depending on the storm and nearby light levels.
In short: start with a low ISO, make a test exposure, and refine shutter speed and aperture from what you see on the camera.
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