Iconic Locations for Landscape Photography
Arkansas offers a wealth of photographic opportunities for landscape enthusiasts. The Buffalo National River, spanning 135 miles through Northern Arkansas, presents stunning vistas of bluffs, rock formations, and waterfalls. The area is best explored by hiking its numerous trails or floating down the river.
Eden Falls, accessible via the Lost Valley Trail, is a picturesque 2-mile round trip hike. The 80-foot cascade surrounded by lush scenery makes it a favorite among photographers, especially in early morning or late afternoon light.
Nearby, Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point) offers sweeping views of valleys below. A 3-mile round trip hike leads to this dramatic overlook, best photographed at sunrise or sunset.
Popular State Parks for Photography:
- Petit Jean State Park: Features the popular 100-foot Cedar Falls
- Hot Springs National Park: Combines unique hot springs with hiking trails
- Garvan Woodland Gardens: Showcases beautiful flora, best captured in midday light
- Devil's Den State Park: Spans 2,500 acres of diverse scenery
- Mount Magazine State Park: Arkansas's highest point, offering commanding views
Other notable locations include Little Missouri Falls in Ouachita National Forest, White Rock Mountain, Cossatot River State Park, Kings River Falls Natural Area, and Collins Creek in John F. Kennedy Park.
Each of these locations combines accessibility with scenic beauty, making them essential stops for capturing Arkansas's diverse landscapes.

Techniques for Capturing Arkansas' Natural Beauty
To truly capture Arkansas's natural beauty, it's important to master key photography techniques:
Lighting:
The "golden hours" of early morning and late afternoon often provide the most compelling light. The "blue hour" shortly after sunset or before sunrise can be particularly striking for water scenes.
Composition:
Use the "rule of thirds" to create balanced images. In forested areas, use "leading lines" to draw the viewer's eye through the image.
Waterfalls:
Use a tripod and slow shutter speeds to create a silky effect on falling water. Neutral density filters can help achieve longer exposures in daylight.
Lenses and Filters:
- Wide-angle lenses (16-35mm): Great for sweeping vistas
- Telephoto lenses (70-200mm): Help isolate specific elements
- Polarizing filters: Enhance colors and reduce glare, especially useful for water and foliage shots
Post-processing:
Use programs like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to fine-tune images, but aim to enhance rather than overwhelm the natural beauty.
By applying these techniques, you'll be well-equipped to capture Arkansas's stunning landscapes in their full glory.

Seasonal Changes and Their Impact on Photography
Arkansas's distinct seasons offer unique opportunities for landscape photography throughout the year:
Fall:
The landscape bursts with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, creating dynamic compositions. Crisp air often means clearer skies, perfect for sharp, detailed images. Focus stacking can capture the depth of these intricate scenes.
Spring:
As snowmelt fuels rivers and waterfalls, it's an ideal time to experiment with longer exposures. Use macro lenses to capture the delicate details of blooming flowers and new foliage.
Summer:
Longer days bring vibrant sunsets and sunrises. Try backlighting and silhouettes during golden hours. It's also a great time for adventure photography, capturing outdoor activities. Use polarizers to reduce glare and enhance colors.
Winter:
Snow-covered landscapes create serene, almost monochromatic scenes. Frost and snow can form natural frames around picturesque elements. Colder temperatures allow for longer exposures without overheating your camera's sensor. HDR techniques can help balance stark contrasts between snow and shadows.
"Adapting your techniques and gear to each season's unique conditions will help you capture the essence of Arkansas's ever-changing landscape."
Remember to anticipate weather changes and understand the light conditions each season presents to transform good photographs into great ones.

Profiles of Notable Arkansas Landscape Photographers
Tim Ernst and Brad Sims stand out as notable Arkansas landscape photographers, each offering unique perspectives on the state's natural beauty.
Tim Ernst
Often regarded as Arkansas's premier wilderness photographer, Tim Ernst has dedicated over 25 years to capturing the state's landscapes. Born and raised in the Ozarks, Ernst's connection to Arkansas is evident in his work. His photographs are known for their:
- Intricate detail
- Dramatic compositions
- Ability to evoke emotion
Ernst's guidebooks, filled with documented trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views, serve as valuable resources for hikers and photographers alike.
Ernst's workshops have helped many aspiring photographers develop their skills. He emphasizes understanding light and composition, encouraging participants to experiment with night photography and capture less-seen aspects of natural landscapes. His seasonal tours and slideshows continue to inspire, presenting his latest work and sharing the stories behind each shot.
Brad Sims
Though newer to the professional scene, Brad Sims has quickly made a name for himself with his unique perspective on Arkansas landscapes. Specializing in intimate and often overlooked spots, Sims' work stands out for its focus on smaller, intricate details. His series "Tiny Landscapes" transforms moss or rivulets of water into grand vistas, emphasizing the beauty found in nature's minutiae.
Sims encourages photographers to rediscover the world at their feet and around their usual haunts. He recommends varying angles and perspectives, suggesting photographers try:
- Getting low to the ground
- Finding unusual vantage points
- Offering fresh takes on familiar scenes
Both Ernst and Sims underscore the importance of personal style and patience. Ernst's grand panoramas and Sims' intimate landscapes together paint a comprehensive picture of Arkansas's multifaceted beauty. Their collective wisdom encourages photographers to explore both the expansive and the minute, finding wonder in every perspective.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Photography Spots
Arkansas hides a treasure trove of lesser-known locales that offer compelling landscapes away from the crowds. These hidden gems provide quieter, more intimate settings for unique shots.
Collins Creek
Located within John F. Kennedy Park near Heber Springs, Collins Creek is easily accessible via a well-marked hiking trail. The creek offers various photographic opportunities, from tranquil waters to picturesque surroundings.
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for serene ambiance
- Technique: Use long exposure shots and a polarizing filter to reduce glare and saturate colors
Kings River Falls Natural Area
Situated in the Ozark National Forest, this area features a scenic 2-mile trail along the Kings River. The highlight is Kings River Falls, with cascading waters framed by rocky outcrops and dense woods.
- Best time: Spring for most animated scenes; sunrise or sunset for softer light
- Technique: Use an ND filter to smooth out the waterfall while keeping surrounding details crisp
Cossatot River State Park
South of the Ouachita National Forest, Cossatot River State Park is known for its rough rapids and striking rocky canyon formations. The dynamic landscape offers varied compositions, from action shots of rapid waters to dramatic canyon backdrops.
- Best time: Late spring to early summer for high water levels
- Technique: Use long exposure shots to capture the river's movement
- Access: Brushy Creek Recreation Area provides easy access
Little Missouri Falls
Located in the Ouachita National Forest, Little Missouri Falls offers potential for intimate, close-up shots highlighting the details of cascading waters.
- Best time: Early morning, especially on cloudy days
- Technique: Focus on reducing harsh shadows and capturing the soothing flow of water
- Access: Short walk from the parking lot
These hidden spots offer rich rewards for those willing to seek them out, providing undisturbed canvases for photographic creativity. Exploring these lesser-known wonders can enrich your portfolio with some of Arkansas's most captivating scenery.

Capturing Arkansas's landscapes is about experiencing the state's natural beauty in all its forms. By applying thoughtful techniques and embracing the changing seasons, you can create images that reflect the essence of this remarkable place. Arkansas offers endless opportunities for stunning photography, whether you're drawn to grand vistas or intimate details.








