5ElementsPhotography
FollowEarly morning hike on a trail full of waterfalls
Early morning hike on a trail full of waterfalls
Read less
Read less
Views
72
Likes
Awards
2020 Choice Award
Superb Composition
Absolute Masterpiece
Top Choice
Peer Award
Outstanding Creativity
Top Ranks
Categories
Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Discover more photos See all
Behind The Lens
Location
We saw this powerful, yet serene waterfall nestled in the canyons in Ricketts Glen State Park. There is a loop hiking trail with several picturesque falls.Time
We beat the crowds by tent camping in the park which gave us the early advantage to be on the trail as daylight broke. We don't sleep late in our tent!Lighting
Our goal for being on the trail by daybreak was so we could access waterfalls further down the trail and still have the soft, color-enhancing natural light.Equipment
This scene was captured with a tripod mounted Canon 6D camera with a wide angle lens set for 1/4 second exposure to blur the water and evoke its movement. A trigger was used to help minimize movement.Inspiration
There is something calming about being tucked away in the woods next to flowing water. It is about more than seeing a pretty waterfall and snapping a picture. We took our time to see the falls with our eyes before seeing it with the camera.Editing
We use Lightroom for making slight lighting adjustments so that the mood we felt while experiencing the sounds, smells and sights of this falls comes through in the photo. Can you hear the water? If so, it worked!In my camera bag
We shoot with 2 cameras, our full frame is a Canon 6D with either a wide angle, a 50mm prime or the L-series 70-200 workhorse that has landed in a Costa Rican stream and still performs like a champ. The second camera is an easy to carry Sony A6000 mirrorless. We carry UV, and polarizing filters as a minimum, a tripod, backup memory cards and batteries and cleaning materials. A notepad is handy for making notes about the excursion too.Feedback
Take your time and experience a place before just snapping pictures. Practice "Leave no trace" tips, but dont let that hinder seeking unique angles and views of the scene. Squat down...even put the lens a few inches off the ground and see that bug's eye view! It can feel more intimate when your camera is close to a rock or other natural object. Also look to frame your main subject to add interesting colors and textures that entice the viewer to stay and gaze. Take several photos with different apertures and speeds. Experiment with freezing the water and blurring it to see which result best captures your experience or reveals the subject best.