Long Exposure times during the day

[tazzmann]

I got myself a new Nikon D60 Camera and have put the old Sony Mavica on the shelf. I have been trying to photograph some waterfalls that are in the area and have only been able to go during the day. I have been using a 1 second shutter with the F-stop in different positions using a 55-200 AF-S Lens. The water comes out nice and smooth like I want it, but the brighter part of the images comes out WAYYYYY over exposed. I have tried different settings (Both shutter speed and F-Stop) but can't seem to get "just the right photo". Any tips or suggestions on how to do this?

Mike

[RTaylor]

Michael,
What ISO are you using? I use 200 or even 100.

I also would set the exposure compensation button to a -.03 or even .075

Try not to photograph waterfalls around noon unless you are covered by trees which will put you and the water in the shadows.
Sometimes cloudy days with no real sun can be the best time to photograph waterfalls

Assuming you used a tripod?
I always shoot Aperture Priority and most times for waterfalls, have it set anywhere from F11-F22 depending on how many trees are near the falls in case its a windy day. No real wind, I have it set for F22 and let the shutter speed adjust itself.

[RTaylor]

lol, I see you just added your Nikon D60 to your signature while I must have been typing the previous message. I was going to mention, you should add your new gear

[tazzmann]

hmmmm. didn't check ISO. According to the exif info, It was on auto and adjusted itself to ISO 125. And yes, I was using a tripod with a remote shutter release. I played with the Exposure comp stuff, which helped some, but generally made everything too dark. I think I will try to go back earlier in the morning. The sun was partly shining on the waterfall, which caused overexposure in those areas. I will continue to play and see what happens.

Mike

[Rrdjserv]

Ruth had some good suggestions.

Also, if you have a lens filter to cut down on light that could help. If not, you can always use exposure bracketing and HDR. Your best solution, however, might be to wait for a cloudy day.

--Rick

[russellsnr]

Hi, Ok this is JMO.
If you want to photograph water in the daytime use a ND (to give a slow shutter speed) or ND Grad filter, slows down the water with the ND but with the ND Grad you should be able to counter act the blown out skies.
Hope this helps
Russ