Several years ago, in late April, I was hiking along a small creek in the Mirabel region.

I saw this lovely, quiet scene and was captured by the beauty of the narrow creek flooded with fresh spring runoff water and bordered by tall trees. I spent some time planning my composition and the best viewpoint to take advantage of the subtle light.

I set up my tripod, camera, wide-angle lens, and cable release on top of a large rock in the middle of the creek. I also installed my 10-stop ND filter to allow for a long exposure.

I chose a long exposure to smooth any wind ripples on the water's surface, increase reflections, and augment the impact of all elements. I wanted to emphasize the mysterious nature of the place. I used the Live Time feature on my Olympus camera to achieve a perfect histogram (ETTR). It took 246 seconds.

I was very pleased with my choices; I had captured a magical underwater forest!