Quick recipe
- Compose and focus before fitting a strong ND filter. Identify the static anchor and every moving element.
- At the chosen aperture and ISO, make an unfiltered baseline exposure and note the shutter duration.
- Fit and seal the filter, then calculate the nominal duration: baseline duration multiplied by two for each stop.
- Use the self-timer or remote. Check the camera manual for stabilization, electronic-shutter, and long-exposure noise-reduction behavior.
- Make the exposure, then inspect the static anchor, motion texture, clipping, color, and frame edges.
- Change shutter duration for the motion, not only brightness. Recalculate if aperture, ISO, filter strength, or light changes.
Starter settings to test
These are testable starting ranges, not exact settings. Subject movement, light, focal length, support, and intended output can change the recommendation.
| Decision | Starting point | Change it when |
|---|---|---|
| Aperture | About f/5.6–f/11 | Open or close for the depth and lens performance you need, then recalculate the filtered duration. |
| Shutter | Test about 1/4–120 seconds, based on the motion | Shorten if all texture disappears or unwanted objects smear; lengthen if the motion change is too small. |
| ISO | Near the camera’s clean base region when practical | Raise ISO only when aperture, maximum usable exposure time, changing light, or moving static details require it; recalculate afterward. |
| ND filter | About 3–10 stops when a filter is needed | Use a weaker or stronger filter if the calculated duration cannot create the desired motion under stable light. |
Before pressing the shutter
- ☐ Location and return route are safe
- ☐ Support is stable and permitted
- ☐ Composition and focus set before filter
- ☐ Baseline shutter time recorded
- ☐ Filter seated and light leaks checked
- ☐ Timer or remote ready
- ☐ Test image reviewed at useful magnification
Safety: Stop if surf, moving water, traffic, rail corridors, cliff edges, unstable ground, darkness, or weather make the location unsafe. Check current access and tripod rules.
Sources and methodology
This recipe draws on the sources below. You can check the original guidance from photography organizations and manufacturers:
- Nikon: Long-exposure workflow with moving water
- LEE Filters: Big Stopper exposure guide
- Nikon P7000 manual: stop-equivalence reference
Related guidance
ND filter exposure calculator · 500 Rule exposure calculator
