by Harvey Smart
For this issue’s photo competition, I’ve decided to pick the theme Water.
You might think water is boring, but it actually offers a lot of creative possibilities for photography.
There also seems to have been quite an abundance of it lately!
Here are some tips and ideas to help you take photos of water:
Subject – Water is a versatile and fascinating subject that can alter its form and texture, depending on the temperature and the environment.
As we head into winter, water will take the form of snow, frost, or ice, which can create beautiful and dramatic scenes that capture the essence of winter.
You can photograph the intricate patterns of snowflakes, a sparkling landscape coated in the early morning frost, or the way the surface of an icy puddle cracks when you step on it.
Reflections – A fantastic way to add another interesting element to your shots.
The obvious example for this is the reflections on a mirror-calm surface of a loch or pond, but even in the city, a humble puddle can add a whole new dimension to a subject.
Simply get down low to find the best angle to catch reflections. You can also experiment with different perspectives to create unique and surprising images.
Shutter speed – Shutter speed is the key to capturing the motion and texture of water because it determines how fast or slow your camera records an image.
A fast shutter speed will freeze the motion of water and show its details and splashes, while a slow shutter speed will blur the motion of water and create a smooth and silky effect.
Experiment with different shutter speeds to change the look of moving water sources, such as waterfalls, rivers, or waves.
You may need to use a tripod or a stabiliser to avoid camera shake when using slow shutter speeds.
On some devices there is a flash or a burst mode you could try to capture fast-moving water shots.
Water is a wonderful and versatile subject for photography, always present here in Scotland!
Just by using different techniques, settings and angles, you can find a new interesting perspective on what might seem like a boring subject.
Whether you are shooting in nature or in the city, you can always find water sources with potential to enhance your photos, from that dirty puddle by the side of the road, to the glassy surface of a mountain loch in the morning, to the snow dusting the peaks of distant Munros.
The next time you go out with your camera, look for water and experiment with its many possibilities.
Think outside the box, and most importantly, have fun!