Last week’s 52frames photo challenge was fast shutter speed, and for those who wanted to up the challenge, waterdrop photography. I found quite a few instructional videos that provide plenty of insight into the process, and I must say I learned a lot.
First, it isn’t the shutter speed that matters, it is the flash speed, and not all flashes are high speed, fast enough to catch and suspend the water drop without any sense of movement.
Second, in order to fill the frame with the image my macro lens had to be close to the action, which meant it was getting splashed, and I was cleaning my lens every few drops.
Third, there are a few mechanical timers that can be purchased to make this whole job easier, but they are not cheap, so I stuck to the manual process, a small plastic bag of water, dripping into a dish. Timing the drip, tripping the shutter, and flash to catch that beautiful drop after it hits the water is not easy. One photographer warned that this challenge would take persistence, perseverance, and patience.
As I was sitting watching the water drip from the bag into the dish, I think I was about 1% successful in the beginning, but as I practiced my timing got better and I think by the time I had enough good shots to participate in the challenge I was getting about a 20% success rate.
I would say that I persistently persevered and while my patience was tested I resolved to get it right. It reminded me of my days’ figure skating. I, like everyone, practiced, we practiced the jumps and dance steps and routines, over and over and over again, until we got them right, then we would do them again.
I am not sure I will continue with water drop photography, but I am glad I embraced the challenge it was a wonderful learning opportunity.
jmeyersforeman photography 