By Kerry Drager
When it comes to photographing water in motion, "going with the flow" is an eye-catching approach! That means a slow shutter speed that conveys a look of fluid motion - i.e., soft and silky smoothness. But long exposures don't just happen. Here are some tips:
- Low light: Soft and even light - from overcast, deep shade, or very late or very early day - creates slower shutter speeds. At the same time, you avoid the very harsh contrast of a sunny midday.
- Highest f/number: Your lens's smallest aperture gives you the slowest possible shutter speed for the given light and ISO.
- Lowest ISO number: Set your camera for ISO 100 or 200 for a longer exposure. (Save the high ISO numbers for faster speeds in non-tripod situations.)
- Polarizing filter: A polarizer is optional, but I prefer one around water scenes. Because the polarizer is deep-tinted, it helps slow down the shutter speed. But unlike a deep-tinted neutral-density filter, the polarizer also cuts glare and boosts colors.
- Use a tripod: In addition to the tripod, a cable release keeps your hand off the camera when tripping the shutter, thus minimizing the possibility of vibration.
Note: Check out my online photo courses here at BetterPhoto.com: Creative Light and Composition and Creative Close-ups.
Waterfall Fountain by Kerry Drager
heavy overcast; 50mm lens; f22 @ 1/2 sec.; polarizing filter; ISO 100; tripod w/cable release
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