How to Photograph Waterfalls (Travel Photo Tips)

Last Updated: May 8, 2023 // by Rhonda Albom // 84 Comments

Haruru Falls in Bay of Islands, New Zealand Shutter Speed: 1/100
Aperture: f/20, ISO: 200
Hand held

There is something magical about a cascade waterfall spilling over a cliff. Whether it’s a huge waterfall or a gentle trickle, capturing the waterfall photography effect that you want is easy once you know a few simple tricks on how to photograph waterfalls.

The options range from a smooth flow that looks as though the water is blanketing whatever rocks it flows over to a freeze-frame that highlights individual water drops.

Above all, you need to understand both the camera settings for waterfalls based on the effect you want to achieve and the gear you have. Importantly, while having the right gear is helpful, anyone can take better waterfall photos with a few simple adjustments.

Regardless of your camera, you probably have more control than you realise.

Rere waterfall just outslide Gisborne New Zealand is an example of how to photograph waterfalls with a handheld camera — Rere Falls in New Zealand
Shutter Speed: 1/80, Aperture: f/14, ISO: 200
Handheld

How to photograph waterfalls that appear smooth flowing

If you want the effect of smooth water
you need to use a slower shutter speed.

Here are the basics if you have a DSLR, SLR, or another camera that can be set to manual. How to photograph waterfalls so the water appears as a smooth flow:

Camera Mode: Manual
Aperture: f14 to f18 (you want the maximum focus at the optimal aperture for your camera)
ISO: Smallest available on your camera.
Shutter speed if handheld: 1/30 or the slowest speed you can handle. Ideally, use a tripod and an ND filter and start out with a 2-3 second shot. Bracket and experiment with the light.
Shutter speed if tripod and ND filter: 2-3 seconds. Bracket and experiment with the light.
Either use a shutter release cable or set the camera to self-timer.

Waterfall photography shutter speed adjustments and their effect – regardless of your camera type

I have carried a tripod to capture one motion waterfall picture. The average person cannot hold a camera steady for longer than 1/30 second and will use a tripod starting at 1/20 seconds.

The smooth water flowing over Whangarei Falls in New Zealand is an example of how to photograph waterfalls while using a tripod — Whangarei Falls in New Zealand
Shutter Speed: 1.6 sec, Aperture: f/13, ISO: 200
Tripod and ND Filter

If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera and are comfortable shooting manual, use the camera settings for waterfalls listed above.
If you typically keep your camera in automatic mode, you might want to set the camera to “S” for shutter priority. This will allow you to set the shutter speed while the camera makes the rest of the adjustments. If you are taking a handheld shot, try it first at 1/20 second. To help yourself stay steady, hold the camera with both hands, elbows down at your side, and gently hold your breath before you take the shot. If your image is in focus, try again at 1/15 seconds. Or, if your original shot is blurry, try again at 1/30 second.
If you have a tripod, set your camera on shutter priority, and set the shutter no faster than 1/20 second. I usually start at 1/5 seconds or slower if I have an ND filter. If it is too bright, try a shorter time.
If you have a point-and-shoot camera, this effect is a bit more difficult, as they are not designed for tripod shots. Your best option is the setting for the lowest light, either candlelight or night shooting. However, if this triggers your flash, you could try covering it up.

How to photograph waterfalls with water droplets

If you want to freeze the water droplets,
you need to use a faster shutter speed.

Whangarai Falls in Whangarai New Zealand — Whangarei Falls in New Zealand
Shutter Speed: 1/320, Aperture: f/10, ISO: 640
Handheld

Similar to the above, set your DSLR or mirrorless camera to “S” for shutter priority. Set your shutter speed to 1/100 to get started.
If you have a point-and-shoot camera, you can trick your camera into a faster shutter speed by putting it in sports mode.

Our Photography Gear

Several years ago I switched from DSLR to mirrorless technology. The general advantages are lighter weight and smaller gear that sacrifices only the traditional "look" of a professional camera and the ability to blow up images to huge sizes. I have never looked back, and am thrilled with the quality I am able to produce. Below is my current gear, which also serves as my recommendations. My daughter shoots with a DSLR that is also included below.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Digital Camera

Photo Credit: www.getolympus.com

This is it! I firmly believe that the OM-D E-M5 is the perfect travel camera. It's compact, lightweight and weather-sealed, so rain doesn't stop me. While the autofocus is lightning quick, the manual override allows me to obtain a different effect. Output options are RAW, jpeg, or full HD video.

With a 12-40mm lens, advanced image stabilization, speed up to 1/8000 sec, and ISO to 25600, I can shoot in just about any condition and can create impressive low light shots without a tripod. It is now my primary go-anywhere camera, complete with built-in wifi.

The button below lets you purchase directly from Olympus, however, they only ship to the USA and Canada. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 with a 12-45mm lens is also available at Amazon (click here for details).