Autonomous machine (100) navigation techniques include using simulation to configure camera (133) capture parameters. A method may include capturing image data of a scene, generating irradiance image data, determining at least one test camera capture parameter, determining a simulated scene parameter, and generating at least one updated camera capture parameter. Image data for camera capture configuration may be captured while the autonomous machine is moving. Camera (133) captures parameters may be used to capture images while the autonomous machine (100) is slowed or stopped, particularly in lowlight conditions.