Silky Waters Photography at Great Falls with Washington Photo Safari
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness needed for walking over rocky, uneven ground for several hours.
Overview
Capture Great Falls’ rushing waters like never before with Washington Photo Safari’s specialized ND filter workshop. Spend three hours learning long exposure techniques at sunrise to create stunning silky water images.
Adventure Tips
Bring a sturdy tripod
A stable tripod is essential for sharp long exposure shots in this waterfall environment.
Arrive before sunrise
Early arrival helps avoid crowds and provides the best natural light for slow shutter photography.
Use an ND filter of 10 stops or higher
ND1000 or similar filters are recommended to achieve the desired silky water effect in daylight.
Prepare for uneven terrain
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip as you’ll be near slippery rocks and roots along the riverbank.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Great blue heron
History
Great Falls has long been a key natural barrier on the Potomac River, historically significant to indigenous peoples and early settlers.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails and minimize disturbance to protect fragile riverbank ecosystems and water quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
DSLR or mirrorless camera
Allows manual control over shutter speed and aperture for long exposure shots.
Neutral Density (ND) filter
Required to reduce light for slow shutter speeds that produce the silky water effect.
Tripod
Stabilizes the camera for sharp long exposures.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers and bring rain or sun protection depending on the season.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific