When I visit the Big Bend area, La Cuesta is one of my favorite locations for long-exposure photography. Situated just off Farm to Market Road 170, approximately 14 miles west of Lajitas, this spot boasts an ideal combination of low water flow, boulders, and a perfect alignment with the setting sun. I keep coming back to this spot, so you may have seen this vantage point multiple times.
Taking long-exposure photos during the daytime is both exciting and challenging. This technique involves extending the exposure time by adjusting camera settings and using filters. To achieve a long exposure, I typically close down the aperture to f/11, lower the ISO to 100, and add Neutral Density filters to block some of the light. I’ve recently started using Lee Filters, and I find them to be highly enjoyable.
This image was taken with my Sony A7R IV using my Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 Lens set on 16mm. The camera was set on Manual mode with the aperture set at f/14, shutter speed at 30 seconds, and ISO set at 100. I used a tripod for stability and a 10-stop Neutral Density Lee Filter to extend the exposure time. I processed the image in Lightroom and completed it in Photoshop using Nik Color Efex Pro.
Click here to see other images like this in my Big Bend area gallery. Please post your comments, questions, or suggestions in the section below.
T. Kahler Photography
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Beautiful!
Thanks Amit!