7 Tips for Waterfall and River Adventure Sessions

I absolutely love being around water. There is something so soothing about being surrounded by the mountains, and hearing the the burbling noise as the water runs off of the rocks, while feeling the refreshing water on your feet. Whenever I get the opportunity to shoot an elopement or adventure session in or around water, I absolutely jump at the chance.  But it can be pretty tricky, so let me give you some tips to make it a better flowing experience. (Get it? See what I did there? Flowing. Water…Yeah I make bad jokes.)

The best lighting will be 2 hours after sunrise or 2 hours before sunset. This is when the  light is the softest and most flattering. This is called the golden hour. Sometimes rivers are surrounded by mountains or have more shade cover, so you can shoot during other times of the day as well.   The lighting just may be a little trickier, but the contrast of a beautiful blue sky with white clouds can really make your water images pop, especially with a beautiful white wedding dress! Your best bet is to choose a photographer who is experienced in lighting and locations in the middle of the day and can use off camera flash for those trickier situations.

Those pesky insect friends sometimes gather at the river, or on the hike to the river or waterfall. So if you are planning to go somewhere there might be bugs, make sure to spray yourself down.  Sunscreen is also a must if you are going to be in the sun for a while.

This one speaks for itself  If you are doing your session at the river, you’re gonna get wet. At least a little. : )

It can get really hot at the river so be sure to bring something to drink. Water is the best option for those ultra hot days. Consider beer or champagne for a toasting shot after you have said I do!

Barefoot will probably be your choice for the actual photos, but make sure you bring a  good pair of shoes that can handle getting wet for hiking and climbing on slippery, wet rocks. Wanna rock some high heels in front of a waterfall? Bring em!! I just recommend  putting  them on when you have found a secure spot!

Being around the water is fun, AND calming AND exciting! Become like a kid again and play! : )  Your job is to have fun and live in the moment and I will be there to capture the memories! : )