Downstream

Downstream, Routeburn Track, NZ – Steve Rutherford Landscape Photography Art Gallery

Downstream, Routeburn Track, NZ – Steve Rutherford Landscape Photography Art Gallery

This is an unframed, limited edition collection, landscape photography print of only 25 units. It is printed on Hahnemuhle Fine Art Pearl papers, structured to refract the highest values in colour and detail. It’s high-quality ink absorbing layer enables exceptional image quality with enormously detailed sharpness, and a very broad colour range, providing archival permanency of your artwork for over 100 years.

On tripod, Sony A6000, 16mm, F14, 2 sec, ISO 100, no filter, processed in Lightroom.

There are places in New Zealand that have to be seen to be believed. This part of the Routeburn track is literally at the start of the track and provides a nourishing welcome home to those walking the tracking both ways. The rocks are golden, the water is glacial and clear and the peaceful sound of the river is something magical. Don’t let that fool you though, those rocks are as slippery as hell, and do not make for an way platform to capture long exposure from. This was captured from laying on my stomach in the glacial melt, across the top of a large smooth boulder. I was cold, wet, but I was more than happy.

Downstream, Routeburn Track, NZ – Steve Rutherford Landscape Photography Art Gallery

Long exposures in rivers can present many obstacles. Firstly, walk to where you want to photograph from, without your gear, particularly if you are wading out into the river. be very careful of under currents, which can surprise you and sweep your footing out from under you, quickly dunking you in the river. Unlike seaside rocks and boulders, moss can appear in different colours, mainly brown the same as the rock, which makes it very difficult to see. I’ve seen may photographers think going barefoot in this scenario is a better option, only to return with a broken toe or two. Once you find a spot, have someone pass you your gear or go back and retrieve it retracing your footsteps. Then take your time setting up. Extend your tripod legs to use as a walking stick as well to help with your balance.