I was trying out the Aperture Priority setting on my camera a few summers ago and just came across these photographs again. I thought I would share them and tell you how I did it if you want to try it out. You will need a camera with manual mode like a Digital SLR (DSLR) or Mirrorless.
Here are some tips you can use to take great waterfall photos:
1. Use Manual (M) or Aperture Priority Mode (usually labeled “A”)
2. Change the aperture to a larger number (f-stop) as this decreases the amount of light that passes through the lens. I recommend between f/11 and f/22 depending on your lens.
3. Use a slow shutter speed, the slower the better…and take lots of images with various settings to get just the right look.
4. Use the lowest ISO (like 100) as this will give you the clearest and cleanest photo, but also allows for a slower shutter speed
5. Use a tripod – this is a must unless you have something to set your camera on like a fencepost, backpack, or a rock. It can be difficult to keep the camera straight in those examples however. I always bring a short portable tripod in my camera bag for times like these.
6. If you want to get really advanced you can use a neutral density filter. ND filters block some light from entering the lens which allows you to leave the shutter open longer in daylight to achieve smoother waterfall photos.
7. I have also used a pair of sunglasses in a pinch if they are large enough to cover the camera’s lens and not be seen in the photograph. Just make sure the lenses of your glasses are clean and free of smudges.
These were taken on the Bear Creek hiking trail which is down the Bitterroot Valley Near Stevensville, Montana — Visit the Forest Service Website for more information.
Hope you enjoy the photos
–Rob