Sutherland Falls

Sutherland Falls drops 580 meters in three dramatic cascades from Lake Quill down a sheer cliff face, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the world and one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural subjects. If you hike in via the Milford Track, a side trail branches off near Quintin Lodge and brings you close enough to feel the mist, which adds atmosphere but means you should protect your gear with a rain cover or dry bag. Wide angles work best here since the full height of the falls is difficult to capture in a single frame; try stepping back to include the surrounding forest and cliff walls for scale. Midday light can work surprisingly well because the mist diffuses harsh shadows, though overcast days give you the most even, detail-rich tones across the cascades. A scenic flight offers an entirely different perspective looking down into the valley. (Fiordland National Park, Southland, New Zealand)