Estimate correct exposure without a light meter using the classic Sunny 16 rule, or convert between EV and camera settings. Essential knowledge for manual exposure.
Sunny 16: On a sunny day, set aperture to f/16 and shutter speed to 1/ISO. EV = log₂(f² / t) at ISO 100.
Conditions: Bright sunny day with hard shadows
ISO setting: ISO 200
Basic rule: f/16 at 1/200s (shutter = 1/ISO)
For softer light: Open to f/11 for slight overcast, f/8 for full overcast
Alternative: Keep f/16, adjust shutter: 1/400s for f/11 equivalent
| EV | Lighting Condition |
|---|---|
| 15-16 | Bright sun on snow/sand |
| 14-15 | Bright/hazy sun, clear shadows |
| 13-14 | Bright sun, typical scene |
| 12-13 | Hazy sun, soft shadows |
| 11-12 | Cloudy bright, no shadows |
| 10-11 | Heavy overcast |
| 8-9 | Sunset/sunrise |
| 5-7 | Deep shade, indoor near window |
| 2-4 | Indoor, artificial light |
| -2 to 1 | Night street scenes |
On a sunny day with hard shadows, set your aperture to f/16 and your shutter speed to 1/ISO (e.g., ISO 100 = 1/100s). Adjust aperture for different lighting.
Exposure Value is a number representing a combination of aperture and shutter speed. Each EV step doubles or halves the light. EV is usually referenced to ISO 100.
Understanding EV helps you estimate exposure without a meter, work faster in manual mode, and better understand your camera's light meter readings.
Very accurate as a starting point. Modern cameras are more precise, but Sunny 16 gets you within a stop, which is close enough for most situations.
Yes, but consider that f/16 may be too small for shallow depth of field. Use the EV mode to find equivalent settings with wider apertures.
Equivalent Exposure · ND Filter Calculator · Hyperfocal Distance