|
Streams, waterfalls, cascades,
and rivers are some of the most captivating and
often-photographed subjects in nature. Creating
powerful and interesting compositions of water is
one of the most challenging, yet rewarding of
photographic pursuits. Flowing water is not only one
of the most beautiful elements of nature but also
the most common and accessible subjects for most
photographers. The following suggestions will help
you to express your creative mind’s eye when
shooting all forms of water.
Strive For The Right
Light
Waterfalls, streams, rivers,
and cascades offer foam, bubbles, and shapes that
will highlight the water’s dramatic appeal. The soft
light of overcast days, shade, or twilight is needed
in order to accurately record water and its
surrounding elements.
Essential Tools For The
Job
Aside from a sturdy tripod for precise framing and
camera stability, a polarizing filter is one piece
of equipment you will often use when capturing
moving water. Keeping in mind your subject matter
and all that surrounds it, a polarizing filter will
remove glare from wet rocks, the water, and foliage
in the frame, producing a richly saturated image.
This filter will also allow for longer shutter
speeds which often necessary for a soft, foamy
effect. Film users will need a warming filter for
shooting in shade and at twilight in order to remove
unwanted, blue color cast. Digital users, on the
other hand, can combat this easily with white
balance. An essential piece of equipment when
capturing moving water is a cable release. A cable
release allows you to lock up your shutter and trip
the camera without introducing vibrations.
Use The K.I.S.S Approach
Keep it Simple Silly! Simple and direct compositions
with two or three key picture elements usually
create the most powerful and captivating images.
Whether you are using a wide-angle or telephoto lens
to frame the scene, strive to keep the composition
clean. The viewers should have no question as to
what the main subject is in a photograph. To make
certain you have accomplished this, it is best to
always remember the rule of thirds. This is
particularly helpful when composing shots of
streams, waterfalls and cascades, as they are often
surrounded by a defined horizon or foreground.
Simplicity is key. If shooting with a digital
camera, be sure to check the image composition and
make any changes on the spot until you feel it is
right.
Incorporate Rocks,
Trees, and Plants
By using the rocks, trees, plants and foliage
surrounding your water subject, you will be adding
dimension and depth to your photo. Pay careful
attention on focusing your subjects, specifically
the surrounding foliage that might move with even
the slightest of breezes. This is where your
unwavering patience will be necessary. You always
want to capture the sharpest image possible.
“S” Curves And Diagonal
Lines
When photographing streams and rivers, look for
winding “S” curves and diagonal lines that will help
the viewer through the image. For example, when the
river comes to a sharp bend, you may want to plant
your tripod just below the curve and have the river
run up into the frame from one corner. Try several
locations and perspectives before committing to a
location so that you know what will create the most
interesting composition. Again, patience is the key
for setting up the shot several times before taking
any actual photographs. If there is a specific focal
point in the scene, be certain that the “S” curve or
diagonal line you use leads the viewer’s eye
directly to that target. Whether a moss-covered
rock, twisted tree, or flowering plant is your focal
point for the viewer, find a line of water to lead
them there!
Get Your Feet Wet
Many times the best angle for streams and waterfall
scenes is right in the middle of the water. Bring a
sturdy pair of hiking boots (waterproof of course!)
as well as a trekking pole to balance yourself when
navigating across wet, slippery rocks and boulders.
Chest waders are essential for cold weather when you
need to go into the water for a better angle.
Watch The Sky
When shooting on overcast days, be sure to keep the
white portion of the sky out of the frame. This will
weaken the composition and distract the viewer from
your subject matter. During the golden hours of the
day and twilight, you will want to utilize a
graduated neutral density filter to preserve detail
in the shadows. Be certain to position the ND filter
precisely as to not darken the foliage and subject
matter in the shade. Use your camera’s
depth-of-field preview when positioning the filter
to help see where the transition accurately lines
up.
Protect Yourself And
Your Equipment
Whenever entering streams, creeks, and plunge pools
below waterfalls, be sure to check the depth and
temperature of the water before you go in. Use your
tripod or trekking poles to steady yourself while
slowly and deliberately entering the water. Bring
along a pair of chest waders when shooting in cold
weather conditions. Spray from waterfalls and
foaming water will often soak the photographer as
well as their equipment, so it is a good idea to
bring along a small towel or large zip lock bags to
help keep your equipment safe and dry. During actual
shooting, make it a habit to check the front lens
element for spray and water droplets. Carry along a
lens cloth that is easily assessable for wiping down
your lens. Assume all rocks and logs are slippery
and dangerous. Using trekking poles or your tripod
for support is always a good idea for protecting
yourself when entering the water. |
About the
Author