United Kingdom Claerwen Dam

One of several scenic dams from the Elan Valley region of Wales. Engineered for practical purposes in providing water to the city of Birmingham, the Victorian design of this dam among others in the area also provides a pleasing air of surrealism in my opinion.

Tripod and neutral density filter definitely help for achieving a long exposure effect. Tripod also helps if you want to position your camera in such a way to capture the pleasing symmetry of the architecture.

When visiting in May of 2018, I arrived late in the afternoon as the sun was setting beneath the height of the dam. A little before sunset though, and everyone had since left much to my delight. Focusing on the dam exclusively at that time of day (minus the sky above) provided ideal shading without facing extreme lighting contrast.

Easy parking nearby, walking time to the dam is negligible. I believe there is a parking fee of £2, which should cover you throughout the Estate and other dams for the day.

Feel free to visit the Estate's website for more information at https://www.elanvalley.org.uk/