Climbing Wave
Feb, 2016Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo is of the local harbour arm and was taken from the beach in Folkestone, KentTime
This is one of my favourites from of a series of shots taken of the huge waves pounding against the harbour in gale force winds. The weather was unusually kind in these sort of conditions, with plenty of sunshine between the clouds allowing for good contrast in B/W images, which I increasingly enjoy.Lighting
Taking the shot to capture a sharp image in fast changing light conditions (due to cloud and constant sea spray from the waves crashing onto the beach) and avoiding hazards like the large telephoto lens being constantly blown about and soaked in salt water spray, was a real challenge! However perseverance, I hope, paid off in the end.Equipment
The photo was taken using a Nikon 4s (with rubber protective cover to protect it from the sea spray), Nikon 200-500mm(220mm) and a mono pod as it was easier to manoeuvre to the best vantage point and control the lens in high winds. Settings; f6.3, 1/500sec, -0.3evInspiration
I have a great fascination for the sea and trying to capture its many moods. The harbour wall and lighthouse helped to give a sense of proportion to the waves, but capturing the power and ferocity of the combination of high winds and huge waves has always presented a constant challenge. Experimenting with different positions along the shoreline was an important part of achieving the desired result.Editing
I have very limited skills in post processing, so getting the right shot was really important. I like the clarity of black and white and only added a little contrast and sharpness to accentuate the clarity of the waves and stonework.In my camera bag
I'm an amateur Nikon enthusiast and once committed to a brand it's difficult to change track. My Nikon 4s (retirement present to myself!) now comes out for the majority of occasions, but haven't plucked up the courage to take it abroad, using the old and trusted D7000 instead. My most used lenses are the Nikkor AF-S 2.8 70-200mm for sports, wildlife and informal photography at events, alongside the 24-70mm for landscape, portraits and events. The new 200-500mm has proved its worth in difficult conditions where getting up closer is just too difficult. I also have a nikon two fixed lenses 50mm 1.4 and 85mm 1.8 for general use and portraits.Feedback
Getting shots like this is totally reliant on the weather, so watching the forecast is essential. High winds are normally accompanied by bad weather so patience is essential. Though these are 'landscape' type photos using a large zoom to capture extreme conditions is sometimes essential and safer, depending on the location. Faster shutter speeds above 1/250 help to 'freeze' the wave. I tend to shoot in manual focus as the spray can confuse the autofocus at the critical moment. Some folk like to 'machine gun' the action with 11 frames a second, which increases you options in selecting the right photo afterwards. For me it's about anticipation and timing, the thrill of watching approaching waves and capturing the critical moment is all part of the experience and fun. It also makes you work harder to get the 'right shot' not just any shot!
