Stunning Photography Locations: Wensleydale Waterfalls

Wensleydale, located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, is a picturesque valley filled with stunning landscapes and natural wonders. One of the most captivating features of this region is the numerous waterfalls that cascade down its rocky terrain. For photographers looking to capture the beauty and power of these waterfalls, Wensleydale provides the perfect backdrop. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at photographing waterfalls in Wensleydale, from the equipment you’ll need to the best spots to capture that perfect shot. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, Wensleydale Waterfalls offer an excellent opportunity to capture some truly spectacular images in one of the finest of the Yorkshire Dales – and it’s usually reasonably quiet compared to the more southern dales.

TECHNIQUE: How to shoot a Wensleydale Waterfalls beautifully

Creating soft wensleydale waterfall photographs requires the use of specific techniques and equipment to achieve the desired effect. Here are the best techniques for creating soft waterfall photographs:

Use a tripod: A tripod is essential for keeping your camera steady during long exposures, which is necessary to capture the silky-smooth effect of waterfalls. It prevents any camera shake, which can ruin your shot and make it appear blurry. Use a sturdy tripod and position it on a level surface to ensure stability.

Slow shutter speed: A slow shutter speed is the key to creating soft Wensleydale waterfall photographs. The longer the shutter is open, the more motion blur is captured in the water, resulting in the silky-smooth effect. Set your camera to manual mode and adjust the shutter speed accordingly, experimenting with different values until you achieve the desired effect. Generally, a shutter speed of 1/4 to 2 seconds will produce the best results.

Polarizing filter: A polarizing filter helps to reduce glare and reflections from the water surface and surrounding foliage, making colors appear more vivid and saturated. It also helps to create a more contrasted image with more defined edges.

ND filter: A neutral density filter reduces the amount of light entering the camera, allowing for longer shutter speeds without overexposing the image. It is especially useful on bright and sunny days, where the available light may be too strong to achieve the desired effect.

When using both a polarizing and an ND filter, it is important to adjust the exposure accordingly to maintain the correct brightness of the image. Using these techniques together can create an almost ethereal quality to the waterfall, resulting in stunning photographs that capture the beauty of this natural wonder.

West Burton Force

Cauldron Force in West Burton, North Yorkshire—a gem of a spot. It’s not just a pretty face; it’s got history to boot. This waterfall has been a cornerstone of local folklore and a muse for artists for centuries. Wensleydale itself is steeped in history, dating back to Roman times, and the waterfall is said to have been a site of spiritual significance for the early Celtic tribes of the area. In more recent history, the falls have been a subject for landscape painters of the 19th century, capturing the imagination of many who’ve laid eyes on it. It’s as if the cascading water tells stories of the past, making it a living, breathing piece of Yorkshire’s rich history.

The waterfall is a series of cascades that tumble down a rocky chute, creating a spectacle that’s a feast for the eyes. The name “Cauldron” is bang on—the deep pool at the base does look like a boiling cauldron, especially after a good rain. It’s surrounded by lush greenery, making it a sight for sore eyes in any season. In spring, the foliage is fresh and vibrant; in autumn, it turns into a palette of warm colours. Even in winter, the ice formations can make it look like a scene straight out of Narnia.

Now, let’s talk about photographing this beauty. First off, timing is everything. Early morning or late afternoon offers that soft, golden light that makes everything look like it’s been touched by Midas. But don’t just take my word for it; the proof’s in the pudding—or in this case, the photograph. Use a tripod for stability; unless you’ve got hands as steady as a surgeon, you’ll want that extra support. A slow shutter speed will give the water that silky, ethereal quality that makes people go “ooh”. If you’ve got a neutral density filter, slap it on; it’ll allow you to slow down the shutter even more without overexposing the shot.

So whether you’re a seasoned photographer, or just someone who appreciates the finer things in life, Cauldron Force is a must-see. It’s not just a waterfall; it’s a slice of Yorkshire, history and all.

Aysgarth Falls

Aysgarth Falls, now you’re talking! This isn’t just 1 waterfall; it’s a trilogy, each part as epic as the last. Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, this set of three waterfalls—Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls—has been a showstopper for centuries.

First off, a bit of history to set the scene. Aysgarth Falls and its surrounding area have been a hub of activity since the days of yore. The old buildings you see around? They’re not just for show. One of the most iconic is the Aysgarth Edwardian Rock Garden, a relic of a bygone era that adds a touch of class to the landscape. The area was also a hive of industrial activity in the 18th and 19th centuries, with mills harnessing the power of the falls. The waterfalls themselves have been immortalised in art and literature, and even had a cameo in the film “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,” starring Kevin Costner.

Now, let’s break down these three falls. The Lower Falls is the big one, the one that gets all the attention. It’s the largest and most photographed, featuring a series of cascades that flow into a large pool below. But don’t overlook the Upper and Middle Falls; they’ve got their own unique charm. Legend has it that the Upper Falls is where the water nymphs come out to play, while the Middle Falls is said to be the favourite bathing spot of local wildlife. Whether it’s folklore or fact, it adds a layer of mystique.

How to photograph these beauties. For the Lower Falls, you’ve got the basics of tripod, slow shutter speed, and golden hour. A polarising filter is a good shout for reducing glare and making the colours pop. If you’ve got a drone and conditions allow, consider capturing the falls from above for a bird’s-eye view that’ll knock people’s socks off. Just make sure you’re on the right side of the law, of course. Double check this – rules change over the years.

For the Upper and Middle Falls, try experimenting with long exposures to capture the movement of the water over the rocks. These falls are often less crowded, giving you more room to play with composition. And don’t forget the surrounding landscape; the old buildings and rock gardens can serve as interesting focal points or backdrops for your shots.

So, whether you’re shooting from the base, from a higher vantage point, or even from the sky, Aysgarth Falls offers a smorgasbord of photographic opportunities. It’s not just about capturing water in motion; it’s about capturing a piece of Yorkshire’s soul. And when you manage to do that, you’ve not just taken a photo, you’ve told a story.

Cotter Force

Cotter Force, the unsung hero of Wensleydale Waterfalls! If Aysgarth and Cauldron Force are the headliners, then Cotter Force is the indie band that steals the show. Let’s give this hidden gem the spotlight it deserves, shall we?

Firstly, a bit of history and geology to set the stage. Cotter Force is a geological marvel, formed over thousands of years by the erosive power of the Cotter Beck river cutting through the limestone rock. It’s not just a pretty face; it’s a testament to the forces of nature. The waterfall itself has a single drop that’s about 1.5 metres high—not the tallest, but what it lacks in height, it makes up for in character. As for folklore, local tales suggest that Cotter Force was once a meeting place for secret societies, drawn to its secluded and mystical atmosphere. Whether that’s true or just village gossip, it adds a layer of intrigue, doesn’t it?

Now, let’s talk numbers. While exact visitor statistics are hard to come by, it’s safe to say Cotter Force sees fewer footfalls than its more famous neighbours. That’s part of its charm. You’re not elbowing your way through crowds to get the perfect shot; you’ve got the place almost to yourself. It’s like having VIP access to one of Wensleydale’s best-kept secrets.

Photography-wise, Cotter Force offers a unique experience. The single drop cascades down a rocky chute into a small, almost intimate pool below. It’s surrounded by lush green foliage, making it a picture-perfect setting. Because it’s less crowded, you’ve got the luxury of time to explore different angles and perspectives. You could try capturing the waterfall from the top of the chute (it’s a deep gully with a little bridge, very interesting how the geology works out), giving a sense of height and drama. Or go for a low angle at the base to emphasise the power of the water as it crashes into the pool. And if you’re into long-exposure shots, the tranquil setting is ideal for creating that silky, dream-like effect in the water.

Just like at Aysgarth, a tripod is best here. A slow shutter speed will give you that ethereal quality, and if you’ve got a polarising filter, it’ll cut down on glare and make the colours sing. Given that Cotter Force is a bit of a hidden gem, you might also consider using it as a backdrop for portrait or conceptual photography. The serene atmosphere lends itself well to more artistic endeavours.

So there you have it. Cotter Force may not be the most famous of the Wensleydale Waterfalls, but it’s got a charm all its own. It’s a place where you can not only capture stunning images but also enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.