Photography is an art that awes many people. We’ve all seen photographs of those amazing, milky and silky waterfalls dropping down a rock or cliff. Raging rivers, if well captured, could also make perfect pictures. When taking pictures of moving water, there is more to it than just powerful equipment.
The following factors should help you take beautiful pictures;
1. Choose an Ideal Location
The right location is the key determinant factor in photographing flowing water, especially those of waterfalls and rivers. Most waterfalls are found in rugged terrain, and it can be quite challenging to access them. Be extremely careful about the spot you choose to stand for your shot. Approach it from below and watch out for the light to know the appropriate time to take a picture.
2. Make Use of a Good Tripod Stand
Water shots require a tripod for any extra exposure time you may need during photography. It will help you reach a small aperture to enhance sharpness and clear focus on the image without shaking. A remote shutter could also come in handy in reducing the shaking and camera vibration.
3. Select the Right Format
Seaside and ocean water shots can work well with horizontal (landscape) and vertical (portrait) formats. But when it comes to waterfalls, portrait formats are usually the best since the height being captured in the image is greater than the breadth. Choose the proper picture format according to what you’re shooting.
4. Get the Shutter Speed Right
The shutter speed will determine the effect on the water image you take- for instance, silky smooth or milky white. A tiny variation like 1/15 of a second could determine how great a shot will be. If too much light deters you from using a slow shutter speed, you can experiment with a polarizing filter or ND gradient to reduce the light.
5. Try Different Composition
The composition includes different angles, distances, and viewpoints of the dropping water. What amount of moving water do you want to capture? And perhaps things near the water like rocks, trees, and other features. Your closeness to the water is also another aspect you will have to work around with. Once you’re content with the composition you have, refine the image by either zooming in or out.
6. Get into the Water if You Can
Sometimes taking pictures of moving water with your feet in the water would turn out much better than on the shore. You can find unique angles and compositions when you are in the water. So, the next time you’re going to take pictures of moving water, consider carrying a dry/wet suit, sandals, and wading boots.
Conclusion
Taking pictures of moving water can be a whole load of fun but challenging at the same time. Be open to learning and often practicing at different locations and positions until you find the perfect shot. Once the above factors are in place, you are only a shutter away from a beautiful photograph.
