close iframe icon
Banner

Cataract Falls Trail



behind the lens badge

This was taken along the trail leading to Cataract Falls trail in the Great Smoky Mountains.

This was taken along the trail leading to Cataract Falls trail in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Read less

Views

622

Likes

Awards

Zenith Award
Spring 21 Award
Legendary Award
Elite
  View more
Peer Award
sophiedv tracyburroughsbrown kennyhimes picturesfromabove franklinabbott CURUTCHET Skykink +24
Superb Composition
carondee albertraventos susanhealeyduric krishnakumarrj Saney ianjarman hankzer0 +11
Top Choice
kennethwright tiaarxo ms77sti gonzalesdale gloria085 helenamcginty danielnreanzares +10
Absolute Masterpiece
arvyadrianobelegorio Bethany_432 laurahe79 kelsiediperna jillcussen claire85g tulsivarsani +3
Outstanding Creativity
Ellamgray adamemison Dominika666 coni trace953 Tj2107 oh_heynature +2
Magnificent Capture
JJackRonalds Hellrach SigurbergurArnason doubleplay ADesign Steve-n-Ning
All Star
rueysung FeatherstonePhotography mariadel
Superior Skill
mcampi DocTom
Genius
Confalonieri enriquekapie

Emotions

Impressed
SigurbergurArnason daniducayag JJackRonalds
Happy
enriquekapie

Top Ranks

Color Explorer Photo ContestTop 10 rank
Color Explorer Photo ContestTop 10 rank week 1
Covers Photo Contest Volume6Top 30 rank week 2
Covers Photo Contest Volume6Top 30 rank week 1
Rivers Galore Photo ContestTop 20 rank
Rivers Galore Photo ContestTop 20 rank week 1
Image Of The Month Photo Contest Vol 50Top 20 rank
Image Of The Month Photo Contest Vol 50Top 20 rank week 2
Social Exposure Photo Contest Vol 25Top 20 rank
Image Of The Month Photo Contest Vol 50Top 10 rank week 1
Social Exposure Photo Contest Vol 25Top 20 rank week 1
See all

Behind The Lens

Location

I photographed Cataract Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. I was just taking my time along the trail and shooting as I went along my way to the falls. This is a nice level hike that is not far to the falls. This is a great hike for the entire family !!

Time

It was in the early part of the day, between 6-8 am. I like to hit the trails early because there are less people around to get in your shots. Plus, it is always much cooler early in the morning.

Lighting

I liked that there was just enough light coming through the shade of the trees to provide glimpses of sunlight in certain areas of the photograph.

Equipment

I shot this with a Nikon Coolpix L22. I was shooting hand held because I was on the move along the trail.

Inspiration

This particular area along the trail was just very beautiful. It really stood out. I loved the way the moss lay on the rocks and the ferns were placed around in the photograph. I loved the way the sunlight was coming through the shade of the trees just enough to provide a glow on the water as it flowed on down the stream.

Editing

I cropped it a little and added a hint of exposure and saturation. I was quiet pleased with this photo because I hardly had to do anything to it. It was just a good location and timing with the lighting.

In my camera bag

I usually have at least 2 cameras with me, which depends on which ones I decide to shoot with that day. Lens, camera cleaning equipment, maps, extra batteries and memory cards. First Aid kit, bottle water and snacks. I keep my tripods in the vehicle incase I have to use one.

Feedback

Just take your time along the trails. I see a lot of photographers that are so focused on getting to the big falls or the structures that they are hiking to that they miss thousands of great photos along the way to their destination. Also, get an early start to avoid the crowds and the chance of having too much sun on your falls whiting it out making exposure a nightmare. Enjoy yourself along the way. Remember, it's not the destination but the journey !!

See more amazing photos, follow CSHIGHTOWERPHOTOGRAPHY

It’s your time to shine! ☀️

Share photos. Enter contests to win great prizes.
Earn coins, get amazing rewards. Join for free.

Already a member? Log In

By continuing, you agree to our Terms of Service, and acknowledge you've read our Privacy Policy Notice.