The Exposure Formula
The core exposure equation is:
Exposure = Aperture × Shutter Speed × ISO.
This tells you how light, time, and sensitivity combine to make a well-lit image.
The Sunny 16 Rule
For outdoor portraits, use the Sunny 16 rule: set aperture to f/16, then match shutter speed to your ISO (e.g., ISO 100 → 1/100 s).
Perfect for quick, natural lighting in wedding ceremonies!
Depth of Field Formula
Want blurred backgrounds or sharp group shots? Use this formula:
DoF ≈ (2 × N × c × u²) / f², where N is f‑stop, c is circle of confusion, u is subject distance, f is focal length .
It helps plan dreamy portraits or clear group scenes.
Quick Cheat‑Sheet for Weddings
| Goal | Tip |
| Soft veil or dreamy background | Use wide aperture (low N), closer distance → shallow DoF |
| Crisp candid movements outdoors | Sunny 16 rule: f/16, shutter ≈ ISO → sharp & clear |
| Indoor group photos | Smaller aperture + slower shutter + higher ISO |
Why It Matters in Weddings
Knowing the right formula makes your workflow smoother—whether freezing cake cutting or capturing emotional dance moves.
Mixing technical control with creativity gives stunning, polished wedding galleries.
Final Thoughts
So, which formula is used in photography? It depends—exposure, Sunny 16, or depth‑of‑field all play a part.
Master these, and you’ll be ready for every beautiful moment at the big day.
