Now that your 10 Stop ND filter is complete, we can use it. I assume you know the basics of controlling exposure on your camera.



Camera Settings

First, mount your camera to your tripod. Do not mount your ND filter yet. We need to meter the scene. Set your camera into Raw. You can do this with JPG, but it is easier to post process with RAW. Now you can compose your scene. Focus on your subject and switch your camera into manual focus or lock your focus. You will not be able to focus with the filter on.



Metering

Now we need to meter the scene. Set your camera to Manual mode. Set your aperture and iso. Lower the iso for less noise. Perform a meter reading. Your camera meter should tell you if you're over exposing or under exposing. Adjust your shutter speed so you get a proper exposure to your liking.



Adjust Exposure Settings

Next, note your shutter speed. This is your shutter speed without the ND filter. Since the ND filter reduces the amount of light by 10 stops, you can lower the shutter speed by 10 stops too to compensate for the ND filter. Most cameras will allow shutter speed adjustments at 1/3 stop increments. So every 3 clicks of your dial equals 1 stop.



Bulb Mode for Long Exposures

The only problem you will run into is your shutter speed limit. Most cameras will only allow you to go down to 30 seconds for shutter speed. If you're getting a 1/30 sec for your shutter speed without the ND filter, you will need about 32 seconds for the shutter speed to compensate for the 10 stop ND filter. To go beyond the 30 second limit, you will need to set your camera into BULB mode. To use bulb mode, you need a remote shutter release with a timer or with a remote with the hold feature. Nikons can also use the IR remote in bulb mode (press once to start, press again to stop).



Tip:

You can observe your shutter speed before using the filter then calculate the appropriate shutter speed for 10 stops with a calculator too. Instructions on how to calculate shutters could be found all around the web. If you just want a handy guide for 10 stops compensation, look below.





Normal Exposure = With ND Filter

1/1000 = 1

1/500 = 2

1/250 = 4

1/125 = 8

1/60 = 16

1/30 = 32

1/15 = 64

1/8 = 2 min

1/4 = 4 min

1/2 = 8 min

1 = 16 min

2 = 32 min