Settings Breakdown
The heart of long exposure. Duration depends on your creative goal: 1-2s for slight motion blur, 30s+ for silky water, minutes for cloud streaks or star trails.
Neutral density filters block light, enabling long exposures even in daylight. A 10-stop ND turns a 1/125s exposure into a 8-second exposure.
Use sharp apertures for maximum detail. Narrower apertures also extend exposure time, but avoid f/22+ where diffraction softens the image.
Always use base ISO for long exposures. Higher ISO reduces the shutter time needed and introduces unnecessary noise in extended exposures.
Autofocus before attaching the ND filter (most cameras can't AF through dark NDs). Then switch to manual focus and attach the filter.
For exposures beyond 30 seconds (Bulb mode), you need a remote release to hold the shutter open. Wired, wireless, or smartphone app — any works.
Pro Tips
Calculate Your Exposure
Take a test shot without ND at higher ISO. Use an ND calculator app to convert to the equivalent long exposure time at base ISO with your filter.
Cover the Viewfinder
On DSLRs, light can leak through the viewfinder during long exposures. Cover it with the built-in eyepiece cap or tape to prevent light contamination.
Long Exposure NR
Enable in-camera Long Exposure Noise Reduction for shots over 1 second. It takes a dark frame to subtract hot pixels. Doubles your wait time but worth it.
Variable vs Fixed ND
Fixed ND filters are sharper and have no color cast. Variable NDs are convenient but can produce an X pattern at extreme settings. Quality matters.
Check for Leaks
Light can leak around square filter holders. Use gaskets or hold a dark cloth over the filter edges during exposure if you see light contamination.
Wind and Vibration
Wind can shake your tripod during long exposures. Use a heavier tripod, hang your bag from the center column, or shield from wind with your body.