Kleiner Pälitzsee Lake & Boat Dock

This image was taken looking north onto a docked boat at the Kleiner Pälitzsee lake in Rheinsberg. I recommend driving a car here. You'll want to park your car along VCP Bundeszeltplatz and then reference the GPS coordinates to walk to the dock, which is northeast of the road. By car: - Head north on the 122 highway and then take the Kleinzerlang exit onto Canower Street - Head east on Canower Str. toward Dorfstraße - Continue straight onto Dorfstraße - Turn left and then continue onto Kolonie 14 - Continue onto Dorfstraße - Turn left onto Birkenweg - Park along VCP Bundeszeltplatz

The summer months, and even the late spring, are the best months to photograph the Kleiner Pälitzsee lake and boat dock. The trees will be most vibrant during the temperature of the lake will be warm enough to boat and swim.

Visit this spot on a clear day when there aren't many clouds. The lake is small, so you'll most likely be able to capture a reflection of the trees in the water when the sun is shining. I took my photo just before sunset, when the light was soft and there was a luminous glow. You can also find similar conditions in the morning and during the middle of the day. In addition to the daytime, I recommend photographing during sunset or sunrise for different lighting options.

Try using a wide-angle lens (20mm) so you can fit the dock, trees and lake into your frame. I had a Sony camera and a Sigma lens, so I made sure to bring a lens converter.

Use the scene to your advantage. The surrounding trees can frame your shot and the dock will serve as a leading line that guides the eye to the crisp, calm water.

For an alternative shot, have someone jump into the water. You could also try having a model stand on the dock to add a human element to your image.

If you're visiting in the summer, I highly recommend jumping into the lake. It's super refreshing on a hot day!