Shooting Lodh Waterfall – A Photographer’s Challenge & Reward

 

Netarhat– 4

Shooting
Lodh Waterfall – A Photographer’s Challenge & Reward

Exploring
the deep jungles of Latehar district, Jharkhand, I embarked on a
thrilling journey with fellow photographers from the Jharkhand Photographic
Association (JPA) to capture the mesmerizing Lodh Waterfall – also
known as Budha Ghag.

Standing at
an impressive 143 meters (469 feet), it is the tallest waterfall in
Jharkhand and ranks 21st in India. Nestled within the Palamu
Tiger Reserve, this majestic waterfall is formed by the Burha River and
surrounded by dense, pristine forests teeming with flora and fauna.

During the monsoon
season (July to October), its power and beauty intensify, transforming it
into a breathtaking spectacle of nature’s grandeur.

The
Journey & The Challenge

Our
excitement turned into a test of endurance when our vehicles had to stop 1.5
km before the site. Carrying heavy photographic equipment along a steep,
hilly path drained our energy and consumed precious time.

Upon
reaching the main gate, we faced another challenge – it was closed, and
crossing through a narrow sideway was both difficult and risky.

With barely 15–20
minutes to shoot, I quickly set up my camera about 300 meters from
the falls. Though I had planned for a detailed session, we had to leave early
for Gumla (around 80 km away) where lunch was arranged for the entire
team.

Despite the
constraints, I managed to capture a few frames – a testament to patience,
preparation, and quick decision-making under pressure.

Waterfall
Photography Tips

For
photographers eager to capture the smooth, silky flow of waterfalls, here are
some tips that can transform your shots:

1.    
Stabilize Your Camera – Use a tripod for long exposure shots.

2.    
Low ISO Setting
– Start with ISO 100 to slow down shutter speed in bright light.

3.    
Narrow Aperture
– Use f/22 or higher for longer exposures.

4.    
Use ND Filters
– Neutral Density filters (4, 6, 8, 10 stops) help control light; variable ND
filters are cost-effective.

5.    
Wide-Angle Lens
– Ideal for capturing the waterfall in its entirety. Popular focal lengths:
14–24mm, 16–35mm, 17–35mm.

6.    
Shutter Speed
– Start with 1/15 or 1/30 to achieve the cascading effect.

7.    
GND Filters –
Graduated ND filters help darken the sky for dramatic contrasts.

How to
Reach Lodh Waterfall

• From Ranchi: 195.3 km – Best to stay at
  Netarhat and travel from there.

• Nearest Railway Station: Lohardaga (123.8 km, approx. 3
  hours).

Capturing
waterfalls is not just about photography – it’s an adventure of endurance,
creativity, and connection with nature. Despite time constraints and physical
challenges, Lodh Waterfall gifted me frames filled with nature’s magic.

Pictures details—

1. Closed gate of Lodh waterfall.

2. Camera setup at Lodh Waterfall.

3. Scene of cascading Lodh Waterfall.

Text
& Photos by – Ashok Karan
ashokkaran.blogspot.com

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