How to photograph Water Drops

Here's what is used to create this shot:

-Nikon D3000

- Nikon AF-S 18-55mm DX G VR Lens

-External Speedlite Flash*
-Bowl (Preferably with a nice pattern or colors)
-Water
-Dropper
-Tripod
-Ruler
-LOTS of patience!

*The external flash is not necessary if there is suitable lighting, just use camera's flash.

The camera settings...

Shutter Speed: 1/320
Aperture: f/4
Focal Length: 22mm
ISO: 200

You obviously need a fast shutter speed to capture the water, so a lot of light is necessary. I took these shots in the morning when sunlight was streaming through the windows, but I positioned the bowl so there were no reflections on the water.

I recommend using a colorful or patterned bowl because whatever is in or behind the bowl will be reflected within the water drops, so it's good to make it interesting.

I set up the tripod only slightly elevated above the surface of the bowl. Filled it with water, and got the camera ready. I switched the camera to manual focus. I stuck the ruler in the bowl about where I'd be dropping the water drops and focused the camera on it, locking the focus in place. Now, I was ready.

I began dropping the water using the dropper as close to the place where I'd stuck the ruler as I could get it. Now's the hardest part, timing. It's takes lots of practice and many trials, so don't forget your patience for this. You will eventually get the hang of when to press the shutter in relation to dropping the water, and I'm sure you'll come out with some great shots

Most of all, experiment! Try different shutter release timings and different angles.

Increase the shutter speed to freeze the motion of the drop if you are unable to get a perfect timing. But remember, this will result in a darker photo. My advise, use an external flash or High speed lens such as Nikkor 35mm AF-S DX F1.8 G and keep the aperture setting at f/1.8 for maximum light entry.