Waterfalls have been a fascinating subject for photography over years. Every waterfall has a different story and a different scenery around it which separates them from each other. Here are a few tips through which you can add more creativity to your pictures of waterfalls.
Slow Shutter Speed
If you want to create a “ghosting effect” to the waterfall, you need to use a slow shutter speed of several seconds or longer. The slow shutter speed will make the waterfall appear smooth and blurry. A faster shutter speed will freeze the water resulting in an ordinary looking image.
Use a Tripod
As discussed during the last point, slowing the shutter speed means it needs a great amount of balance and grip or it might ruin the image. A tripod is the best option to keep in case of using a slow shutter speed, it will create a smooth effect without any disturbance created by hand-holding the camera.
Use the Lowest ISO
Using a lowest ISO will help in increasing the image quality. In most cameras, the lowest ISO is 100 and apart from increasing the quality, it also decreases the shutter speed. Decreasing the ISO to its lowest will create a win-win situation for a perfectly smooth picture of waterfall.
Use a Neutral Density Filter
One of the easiest ways to decrease the light from the lens is using a ND (Neutral Density) filter which helps in blocking a large portion of incoming light. The filters are designed to let only a minute amount of light pass through the lens which eventually helps in decreasing the shutter speed.
Change Aperture to a Larger Number
Changing the aperture can be an alternate option if you do not want to spend too much on a good ND filter. Increasing the f/ number decreases the amount of light that passes through the lens. You can even try the larger numbers like f/11 or even f/16 if necessary.
Use Wide-angle and Telephoto Lenses
Your lenses are as sensitive as your eyes and you have to take care of them anywhere you are. Taking both a wide-angle and telephoto lens for waterfall photographs are the best options as they will allow you to photograph from a distance. The surroundings of a waterfall release plenty of moisture into the air, which might result in damaging your lens.
Technology evolution in photography has opened a lot of possibilities for waterfall photography. It has come a far way from just freezing the frame and creating scenery. It is part of the art and there is always an option to add a little spice to every photograph.
Blog by: Harshita Sharma