For this trip, I spent days researching locations and even longer on learning camera settings for waterfalls. This part of the process has become more important to me as I’ve delved deeper into photography – the anxiety gets overwhelming if I don’t have an idea of where I’ll visit, or potential shots I will capture. As a result, planning is essential for me to calm the nerves so that when I arrive, I have a plan to guide me.

The scheduled locations were ticked off in turn, and I captured many of the compositions I intended to. However, as we were driving between locations, we caught a glimpse of this spot, somewhere that wasn’t on the plan.

At this point, the significance was unknown to me.

What I assumed was an inconsequential, spontaneous decision to park the car and take a walk resulted in one of my favourite captures of the trip. Not one that I spent hours of research and planning on. Not a shot from a location that the entire trip revolved around.

When I realised this, it triggered many thoughts about my process and how I approach photography. I hope this image serves as a reminder both to myself and others that being present is key, and working with the opportunities you are presented is far more valuable than planning every moment in minute detail. Being adaptable and responsive to the situations in front of you can deliver results that may exceed any expectations you originally had.