Recommended settings#
ModeShutter priority or Manual
Aperturef/8–f/16
Shutter1/4–2 s0.5 s is a good start
ISOBase
FilterPolariser + NDRemoves glare, adds 2–10 stops
FocusManual on rocks
Quick start: Shutter speeds of 1/4–2 s give silky water while keeping texture; overcast light helps.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 12. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright |
| f/5.6 | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s |
| f/8 | 1/60 s | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s |
| f/11 | 1/30 s | 1/125 s | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s |
Step by step#
- Shoot on an overcast day.
- Use a polariser to cut glare on wet rocks.
- Try several shutter speeds — each waterfall looks best at a different one.
Gear checklist#
- Tripod
- Polariser
- ND filters
- Lens cloth (spray!)
Pro tips#
- 1/1000 s freezes every droplet instead — a different but valid look.
Common mistakes#
- Overexposing white water in sun.
- Water spots on the lens.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for silky waterfalls?
Aperture: f/8–f/16 · Shutter: 1/4–2 s · ISO: Base. Shutter speeds of 1/4–2 s give silky water while keeping texture; overcast light helps.
What gear do I need for silky waterfalls?
Tripod, Polariser, ND filters, Lens cloth (spray!).
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources