Slow Down to Level Up
Long Exposures in Landscape Photography
What if I told you, some scenes don’t just deserve to be captured, they deserve to be transformed.
That’s where long exposure comes in. It’s one of my favorite techniques for creating drama and softness in a single frame, especially when shooting waterfalls, rivers or coastal waves.
With long exposure photography, you’re not just taking a photo - you’re bending time. Done right, it transforms motion: water turns to silk, clouds paint across the sky and even a tangled jungle canopy pulses with light and life. It’s not just about slapping on a slow shutter and hoping for the best (though hey, we’ve all been there).
This is where motion meets magic. Here’s how I approach it in the field ⤵️
Turn the Ordinary into the Extraordinary: Here’s How to Get Started:
Tripod is Non-Negotiable - Unless you’re chasing that “oops-I-bumped-it” look (hey, no judgment), a tripod is essential. Stability is the name of the game.
Start Slow - Begin with shutter speeds from 1 to 5 seconds. See how the movement builds. Too sharp? Slow it down more. Too blurry? Bring it back a notch. It’s all about balance.
ND Filters = Daylight Superpowers - These little pieces of dark glass are your best friends when the sun’s out. They block light so you can keep that shutter open longer without blowing out your image.
Low ISO = Clean Files - Stick to ISO 100–200 to keep noise in check and details sharp.
Mid-Range Aperture = Sweet Spot - f/8 to f/11 is where your lens tends to shine. Crisp details front to back without going too soft or too sharp.
Manual Focus = Confidence - Autofocus likes to panic in low light or with subtle textures. Take control. Manual focus gives you precision, especially when you’ve got time on your side.
Want to see what it looks like in action? View my long exposure portfolio here.
Got questions about gear, filters or finding your first long exposure location? Just hit reply, I'm here to help!