Paul, of Paul Lester Photography, made a comment on my recent “watering hole” post saying the location would be a perfect place for some long exposure shots. You can view some of Paul’s beautiful long exposure water photos by clicking on his SoFoBoMo book link on his site, or directly here.
I used a tripod for most of the photos and I was able to get some “longer” exposure shots, with mixed results. I didn’t bring a ND Filter so I relied on low ISO and high f-stop settings to slow the shutter speed as much as possible. Next time I’ll have my ND Filters with me.
As I said there was mixed results. In my opinion, long exposure water shots are best when water is flowing along a route which leads your eye along it’s silky path through the photo. In my case the water at the bottom of the dam was so chaotic and violent that with longer exposure it became one big seemingly out-of-focus cotton ball, with little definition or contrast and no real path for your eye to follow. :-(
I wasn’t satisfied with the results and acknowledge my skill and experience in taking this type of photograph may not have been up to the task. But, I’m looking forward to getting better at it.
Isn’t that what it’s all about? ;-)
Earl, thanks for the mention. Regarding the water, you have to move around to find those flowing lines. I agree with you about the chaotic nature of the water and, if going in the day time, you certainly need an ND filter.
I’m thinking of going back to the glen tomorrow morning and taking some more pictures. With Charlotte’s record rainfall of 11.1 inches in two days, there may be more of a flow than its usual trickle, but it may have gone back down already. We’ll see.
I really like the picture in the middle. I think that you nailed it there.
@Paul: Thanks. Yeah I could have kicked myself for not bringing a ND filter. I’m making sure I always have it in my bag from now on.
Also thanks for the mention on your blog.
Hey Earl,
I love these types of shots. Definitely the ND filter is a must though. I haven’t bought a set myself yet, but I think it will be my next camera related purchase for sure.
Also I think the context around the water (the ‘still’ things) are crucial to developing a great photo. For instance, I think the fall colours in the coming months would make a beautiful backdrop to the first shot in your post. Just don’t go on a windy day, so those leaves sit still for ya. :)
@Richard: I like these long exposure water shots but I’ve not got a lot of experience doing them. I totally agree with you about the context and/or surroundings.
This location is becoming one of my favorites and is only about 30 minutes from home. I’m sure be back a couple of times this fall when the colors change and am looking forward to this winter with some nice shots of ice, water and rocks. ;-)