“Northrup Falls at Colditz Cove” by Robin Conover
Canon EOS 60D, 24-70 mm 2.8 L-series lens mounted on a Bogen tripod
ISO 100, ƒ22 at 4 seconds
Water is one of my favorite subjects to photograph — and to just observe. Sitting beside a mountain stream, at the base of a waterfall or on the beach by the lapping of the ocean waves are all very different and, at the same time, similar.
What I mean is that while visually each is very distinct, the feelings they conjure up are very similar. The sight and sound of water seem to instantly wash away stress and clear my mind. To me, bodies of water are like universal wells of inspiration to which we migrate for peace and solace.
Photographing water, however, can rouse feelings that are quite the opposite — first being frustration — until you get the hang of it. Spending a little time planning your photo shoot will go a long way to making it much more enjoyable and rewarding.
My best tips for photographing water include using a tripod, cable release and circular polarizer. A low ISO like 100 will allow you to use a slower shutter speed, the secret to capturing that silky effect in moving water.
For more tips on how to photograph waterfalls and rivers, click here.
