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Skógafoss



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This was taken during our 2nd visit to the waterfall, the first time we were snowed off.

Skógafoss (pronounced [ˈskou.aˌfɔs]) is a waterfall si...
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This was taken during our 2nd visit to the waterfall, the first time we were snowed off.

Skógafoss (pronounced [ˈskou.aˌfɔs]) is a waterfall situated on the Skógá River in the south of Iceland at the cliffs of the former coastline. After the coastline had receded seaward (it is now at a distance of about 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) from Skógar), the former sea cliffs remained, parallel to the coast over hundreds of kilometres, creating together with some mountains a clear border between the coastal lowlands and the Highlands of Iceland.

The Skógafoss is one of the biggest waterfalls in the country with a width of 25 metres (82 feet) and a drop of 60 m (200 ft). Due to the amount of spray the waterfall consistently produces, a single or double rainbow is normally visible on sunny days. According to legend, the first Viking settler in the area, Þrasi Þórólfsson, buried a treasure in a cave behind the waterfall. The legend continues that locals found the chest years later, but were only able to grasp the ring on the side of the chest before it disappeared again. The ring was allegedly given to the local church. The old church door ring is now in a museum, though whether it gives any credence to the folklore is debatable.
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Behind The Lens

Location

This Icelands highest waterfall,Skógafoss, taken on our 2nd visit there in 2 days, due to a snow storm, that made us adjourn our first visit.

Time

It was taken just before 10am, our aim was to get there before the hoards of tourists descended. Quite glad we weren't there later as i think, it would have been really hard to shoot in full sun.

Lighting

Shot before the waterfall was in full sun, which would have made it really hard to shoot.

Equipment

Shot on a Nikon D5200 with a Sigma 10-20mm 3.5, and a 10 stop ND filter, on my Vanguard tripod.

Inspiration

It was my first trip to Iceland, and my first abroad for 20 years, i was trying to look for a different angle. Which is always tricky with somewhere so well photographed. Was certain i wanted some of the river and ice at it's fringes involved in the image.

Editing

Processed in Photoshop, was just a case of lightening the shaded area, whilst toning down , the highlighted rock face.

In my camera bag

Currently my D5200, with my lens of choice at the moment being a Sigma 10-20mm 3.5, a great lens bought especially for my trip to Iceland, follow by a Nikon 35mm 1.8, a 55-300mm nikon 4.5, and a few assorted filter, although my polariser and 10 stop probably see the most action. and finally my Vanguard Tripod, a good solid dependable bit if kit, if sometimes a little on the heavy side.

Feedback

Iceland can be a tricky place to shoot, the weather and light can change in a matter of minute. But persevere and take your time, it's a staggering beautiful place, give it the attention it deserves and make every shot count. I would suggest shooting Skógafoss, early morning or late in the day, before or after the crowds. Or better still, shoot on a clear night to included the northern lights.

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