Estimating Exposure Outdoors Without a Light Meter
Knowing this basic exposure allows us to draw up the following table based on exposure values. (To view and download a larger copy of this chart, click
here.)
Notice that the table shows values for ISO 100, 200, and 400. If you have ISO 1600, then f16 at 1/1600th is the correct exposure. Then, by equivalencies, the rest of the table can be constructed
f16 1/1600
f11 1/3200
f8 1/6500
f5.6 1/13000
But there are no consumer cameras with shutter speeds this high, so you will need to dial back the ISO in bright sunlight.
But, what if the day is not bright sunlight, but cloudy?? Then, the light is described by the shadows seen, or not seen.
Soft shadows, easily seen with soft edges is weak, hazy sunlight and needs 1 stop more light or f11 rather than f16 at 1/ISO.
Cloudy bright days refer to days where shadows are barely visible, and they require 2 stops more light or f8 and 1/ISO.
Overcast means NO SHADOWS and requires 3 stops more light or f5.6, the same as in the shade on a sunny day.
This knowledge can be very helpful.
Knowing this basic exposure allows us to draw up the following table based on exposure values. (To view and download a larger copy of this chart, click
here.)
Notice that the table shows values for ISO 100, 200, and 400. If you have ISO 1600, then f16 at 1/1600th is the correct exposure. Then, by equivalencies, the rest of the table can be constructed
f16 1/1600
f11 1/3200
f8 1/6500
f5.6 1/13000
But there are no consumer cameras with shutter speeds this high, so you will need to dial back the ISO in bright sunlight.
But, what if the day is not bright sunlight, but cloudy?? Then, the light is described by the shadows seen, or not seen.
Soft shadows, easily seen with soft edges is weak, hazy sunlight and needs 1 stop more light or f11 rather than f16 at 1/ISO.
Cloudy bright days refer to days where shadows are barely visible, and they require 2 stops more light or f8 and 1/ISO.
Overcast means NO SHADOWS and requires 3 stops more light or f5.6, the same as in the shade on a sunny day.
This knowledge can be very helpful.
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