High Falls
High Falls is a striking waterfall tucked into the forested hills of Columbia County, where water cascades over layered rock faces into a rocky pool below. You have two distinct shooting positions to work with: the overlook above gives you a broad view of the falls framed by surrounding trees, while the trail down to the base puts you close to the water and lets you use the pool and wet rocks as foreground interest. A wide angle lens works well at the base to capture the full height of the falls, while a short telephoto from the overlook can compress the scene nicely. Overcast days are ideal since the dense tree canopy creates harsh shadows in direct sun; cloudy light brings out the greens and keeps the water detail clean. Use a slower shutter speed to smooth the flow. Trails are well maintained and accessible for most fitness levels. (High Falls Conservation Area, Philmont, New York, United States)
