larrymcmahon
FollowFall Waterfall near Natural Dam, Arkansas.
Fall Waterfall near Natural Dam, Arkansas.
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken at a Natural Dam, thus the name “Natural Dam”. Located approximately 15 miles North of Fort Smith, Arkansas on Hwy 59 in the small town of...you guessed it, Natural Dam, Arkansas.Time
I usually always photograph this particular place as early as possible to get that early steam rolling off the water and to eliminate any harsh sunlight. I find that my camera adjustments are much more versatile and wide ranging.Lighting
As you look at this photo, you are looking North. Any Photographer knows that the golden hour is prime time for almost any photo. It had also rained during the night before which always brings out the color.Equipment
This photo was shot with a Canon 70D and I believe a Sigma 27-270 Lens. With a slow shutter speed usually around 1- 1.5 sec. Aperture on my waterfalls are usually as wide as I can get it. On this Lens it’s 4. I also use an adjustable Neutral Density Filter to dial in my shutter speed.Inspiration
Natural Dam itself inspires any Photographer I know. It’s endless angles and countless levels of water never fails to deliver.Editing
I always post process my images. I use Lightroom as a beginning platform to upload all my photos. I always shoot in RAW format and as most know RAW is IMO the best way to go. It gives you that HDR ability to bring back your shadows and highlights. I’ll then forward to Photoshop to clean everything up like a piece of trash laying on the bank or an unwanted distraction. I’ll then use my “secret sauce” to just give my photo a little pop.In my camera bag
I have an ample supply of gear with me anytime I go back roading. I have my great Canon 5D Mark 3, several different lenses, neutral density filters, TRIPOD is a must, remote shutter release is a must as well. There’s nothing more disappointing than to travel to your destination only to find you forgot something so, I always load and double check the night before so I’ll know I have everything I need. Oh yes, “batteries” you gotta have spare batteries.Feedback
Being prepared for the unexpected and the expected is paramount. Get up early enough to sit and enjoy your coffee before you leave. Run through your mind where your going and what you want to achieve. When you arrive, take your time to soak in all the available lighting, don’t get in a hurry and before you take that shot, run through your camera adjustments. The ever changing light will dictate your exposure times etc...Take several shots at different angles and shutter speeds. Sometimes especially with waterfalls, there’s that “perfect” shutter speed for the speed in which the water is flowing. Most of all have fun doing what you love to do.