Virgina Water Cascade
Jan, 2017Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken at Virginia Water (Windsor Great Park) in Surrey, UK. The Cascade is a man-made waterfall on two levels. A lovely place to be. I run a Community Camera Club, and this is one of the locations we go to from time to time.Time
This was taken at about 6:30pm in late May.Lighting
It was one of those overcast days (God's softbox), so a black and white conversion was always planned. The long exposure helped to create the great contrast between the rocks and the white water. I wanted texture so I knew post processing was going to be needed.Equipment
This was shot on a Canon 6D with an EF24-105 F/4 L lens. Shot at 24mm, F/14, ISO 100, on a sturdy tripod. The best exposure time, using an ND filter, was 15 seconds. This gave me the effect I was looking for.Inspiration
The cascade is a popular spot for photographers, but I wanted to get a different angle. I scouted round to find a spot that, whilst a bit precarious, gave me an alternative view from many of the shots I have seen. The flow of water against the dark rocks was the image I had in my mind. The resulting swirls in the water were just an added bonus.Editing
I processed this shot mostly in Lightroom. Photoshop was used to remove a few unwanted branches in the water. and being shot on a Camera Club night, there were some camera bags that needed removing (Those pesky Photographers ay?). Back in Lightroom my workflow included raising the exposure and shadows, as I had exposed for the highlights at the scene. This brought out more detail in the rocks. Highlights down slightly, and the Black and White sliders were used to bring out the contrast across the whole image. Some dodging and burning and a final boost of clarity and the image in my mind had became a reality.In my camera bag
I shoot mainly with the Canon 6D. My favourite lens is the EF 70-200 MKii, but love the EF85mm for portraits. 24-105 F4 is my carry round lens which has a great focal length range for everyday occasions as well as landscapes. I have two kits bags, and the larger one will always contain my 100mm Macro along with extension tubes. You never know when the tiny world needs to be explored. I like to be prepared, so Lee filters, shutter release cable and a couple of Canon 600EX-RTs with Phottix Odin triggers will be packed. My tripod of choice with a good balance of weight<&bt;stability is the Manfrotto 190go. I have to give a mention to the very capable Canon G7x II, which I carry around most days when my 6Ds are left at home. Great results from such a compact camera - never miss a shot.Feedback
We all visit so many of the places that every other photographer has been to. I always encourage my club members to look for a different angle. Look for the unusual. This image was shot from off the normal path. I was leaning out over the edge with tripod in the water. This gave me the point of view that many would miss. So my advice is go where no-one else is. Push yourself to get a bit wet. A little danger (I emphasise a little) is good for that great shot. I would suggest visiting the same location at different times of the day, and the year. The seasons can make so much of a difference. If going for a black and white conversion, then always make sure you have some pure black in the image. And a dab of dodging here and there can bring life to areas that can otherwise seem very flat.
