Waterfall blow-out

[Llywelyn]

From Caerdydd

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Camera: Canon EOS 500D
F-stop: f/22.0
Exposure time: 1/4 sec
ISO Speed: 400
Exposure Bias: 0 step
Focal Length: 24 mm
Flash: No Flash
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Hi - this is my first attempt at trying to catch the water flowing over a waterfall. Other than the out-of-focusness of the shot, the main aspect of the photo that I am unhappy with is the overexposure of the water. I tried using a polarizing filter (which I already owned) to cut down on the amount of light entering the camera - is the only solution to use an ND filter? The problem is - I am quite happy with the exposure of the the background/surround. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Many thanks, Llywelyn

[markjdos]

Drop your ISO down to 100 or less if your camera alows for it. Also, Shoot just before sunrise or just after sunset when there is less light and less chance of things getting a blown out. Really cloudy days can also be good for shooting waterfalls.

[navcom]

Waterfalls like this are "perfect storms" as far as dynamic range go. Bright, white water next to dark rocks and trees. It's very difficult to get well exposed water without underexposing it's surroundings or well exposed surroundings without blowing out your water.

Mark is right...try showing up on a cloudy day for this type of shot. The best time is actually right after a rain shower. The colors will really pop.

As for using an ND filter, this particular composition wouldn't lend itself too well for that. A solid ND filter will not help. It will just slow your shutter speed down. The huge dynamic range will remain...you will just shoot it slower. An ND grad is probably what you are thinking of, but there is no real easy way to make one work in this composition.

Hope that helps!

[Llywelyn]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I have to admit that ISO was on automatic and I didn't notice that is was at ISO400 until I looked at the EXIF data ... I guess I need to be more aware in future.

I guess I also need to put more thought into my compositions. Thanks!