Waterfalls are one of the few things that can look totally different with a simple change in camera exposure.

This photo, with a tiny falls that looks delicate and soft, was shot with a shutter speed of about one-half second. Other frames were shot at a speed even slower. Use something rock-solid to steady the camera.

But turn that shutter speed up, freeze the splattering of the water on the rocks, and the waterfalls suddenly becomes a torrent of action and splashing. The higher the shutter speed the better, but at least 1/500 of a second.

It all depends on what kind of picture you're looking for-- raging action or quiet beauty. And don't dismiss the possibility that this small waterfall can look angry. Give it a try. You might be surprised.

This photo was taken while biking the Great Allegheny Passage.