Cheat sheet · People

Camera settings for indoor portraits with window light

A large window is a giant softbox — turn the subject toward it and expose for the face.

ModeAperture priority
Aperturef/1.8–f/2.8
Shutter≥1/125 s
ISO400–1600Auto ISO
White balanceDaylight or custom
Quick start: A large window is a giant softbox — turn the subject toward it and expose for the face.

Starting exposures#

Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 7. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.

ApertureISO 100ISO 400ISO 1600ISO 6400
f/1.41/60 s1/250 s1/1000 s1/4000 s
f/2.81/15 s1/60 s1/250 s1/1000 s
f/5.61/4 s1/15 s1/60 s1/250 s
f/80.5 s1/8 s1/30 s1/125 s
f/111 s1/4 s1/15 s1/60 s

Step by step#

  1. Place the subject 1–2 m from a window without direct sun.
  2. Angle them 45° to the window.
  3. Use a reflector on the shadow side.

Gear checklist#

  • Fast prime
  • Reflector

Pro tips#

  • Turn off room lights to avoid mixed colour.

Common mistakes#

  • Mixed tungsten/daylight colour casts.
Headshots85–135 mm at f/4–f/5.6 keeps the whole face sharp; soft key light at 45°.… Newborn & baby photosSoft window light, a fast prime and silence: never use direct flash on newborns.…

Frequently asked questions#

What are the best camera settings for indoor portraits with window light?

Aperture: f/1.8–f/2.8 · Shutter: ≥1/125 s · ISO: 400–1600. A large window is a giant softbox — turn the subject toward it and expose for the face.

What gear do I need for indoor portraits with window light?

Fast prime, Reflector.

Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources