What makes rivers so fascinating to photograph? It’s the fact that they’re “formed at the confluence of land and water,” explains freshwater photographer David Herasimtschuk, who documents the often-overlooked species that live in rivers. “Rivers are a combination of two vastly different environments merging together to create a complex and captivating ecosystem.” For this reason, his favorite type of photo for freshwater environments is the split shot—an image that frames a view both above and below the surface of the water. Here’s what to consider when creating river photography, according to Herasimtschuk:
You will fail most of the time. “For some species, it has taken me years of research, exploration, and patience to capture a single compelling image,” he says. The upside is that the photograph is often a first documentation of a species or a certain behavior.
Compact, lightweight equipment is best. Freshwater photography often requires significant hiking and wading to locate your subject, so mobility is paramount. Herasimtschuk uses the compact Sony Alpha 1 and Sony a7S III mirrorless cameras in Nauticam underwater housings, which he describes as form-fitting and ergonomic.
Wide-angle is essential. “While lenses with focal lengths greater than 17mm can achieve the desired effect, I recommend using a 14mm or 15mm fisheye lens for optimal results,” Herasimtschuk says. His favorite lens setup is Nauticam’s WWL-1, “a wet-connect wide-angle lens that allows focusing all the way up to the glass dome.” It’s perfect for photographing smaller river creatures.
A dry suit is everything, and so is patience. “Much of my time is spent lying still for hours, allowing wildlife to become comfortable with my presence,” Herasimtschuk says. That’s why wearing dry suit—despite the fact that it makes him look like a swamp creature, he jokes—is imperative. Frigid water temperatures abound in this work and the dry suit, along with thick neoprene gloves and a hood, are essential for comfort and safety.
Timing matters. Many species are more active during breeding season, so research the biology and behavior of subjects to capture them at their most compelling. Maintain a respectful distance to minimize the animals’ stress while you work.
Amanda Arnold is a senior editor.
